An Unforgettable Bar Mitzvah

By Bernice Fogel

As a Board Member of the Friendship Circle of Central Jerusalem, I have witnessed many heartwarming experiences. Yet one in particular stands out in my mind. It was this past August when Rabbi Michoel Rosenthal, Director of the Friendship Circle of Marseilles “Beyachad,” contacted Friendship Circle Central Jerusalem, directed by Chanie Canterman and a dedicated team of volunteers. His request to them was to unite forces for a very special event.

A teenage, Jewish boy named Ari, from the Marseilles community, was due to arrive in Israel with his family in honor of his forthcoming Bar Mitzvah. A celebration was not planned as the family felt intense sadness. After thirteen years of hope, Ari still could not speak.. How could he celebrate a real Bar Mitzvah?

Ari is a beautiful young boy with autism. Undaunted by the fact that Ari cannot speak and thus would not be able to be called up and read from the Torah (as is traditional) the two Friendship Circles were determined to make this a special day and an exceptional occasion in all respects. Ari would enjoy and remember his Bar Mitzvah day just the same as every other 13 year old boy. Because every child is worth it.

A small, intimate crowd of family and Friendship Circle Central Jerusalem friends gathered on a Monday morning to hear Ari’s father being called up to the Torah while Ari sat silently nearby. In the middle of reciting the Bracha, Ari’s father broke down with emotion. Suddenly the silence was broken by Ari’s piercing cry, coming from what felt like the core of his soul. It was a humbling experience, unlikely to be forgotten by any of the celebrants present, but the joyous throwing of candy instantly lightened the atmosphere.

After the davening, a lavish and elegant buffet style Seudah – which included a personalized cake – had been lovingly prepared by FC Central Jerusalem Director, Chanie Canterman, and her team of incredible volunteers. No detail was spared.

The theme of the party was Tzedaka and Chessed, Ari’s favorite mitzvah. All the family wore specially designed “kippot” with “Ari loves Tzedaka”. There were Tzedaka boxes on the tables with coins to put in and a huge box in the center of the room, which Ari helped fill with packages of baby products, donated by family and friends for the Lev Imahot organization, which helps mothers and babies in need.

Yeshiva boys swept the crowd off their feet with spirited singing and dancing, encouraging everyone to join in, including of course, our dear Bar Mitzvah boy. The room was filled with joy, laughter and love. The pictures tell the story well.

It didn’t end there! A band of lively musicians accompanied Ari and the family to the Kotel where they prayed together, united by an indescribable bond. The most special moment of the day was captured in a photograph. Ari’s first real smile! A look of absolute happiness.

Without the tireless work of Friendship Circle of Central Jerusalem and their endless social opportunities they offer to children with special needs, I would not have had the privilege to be part of this most moving celebration. And Ari and other children with special needs would have been left outside of The Circle. A circle comprising 100% good heart, where every participant is a giver.

Thank you for bringing me into this special world. A world whose tagline reads: “Because Every Child is Worth it.”

May we always be granted the honor to share in such special occasions.

Today you can #Donateto208 and join the Friendship Circle of Central Jerusalem in changing the world for the better. There is a piece of Jerusalem in every Jewish heart. Visit www.charidy.com/cmfc to donate today. All donations quadrupled for the next 12 hours only!