The participants of Chabad’s Bat Mitzvah Club recently held a special Mother-Daughter Banquet ceremony, congratulating club members on their achievement in learning and community service. A highlight was a “Jewish Women of History” fashion show, in which club members dressed as famous Jewish women, while Chana Burston, director of Chabad of Orange County, narrated stories and lessons that can be learned.
Participants also enjoyed a dinner with their mothers, creating a special Mother-Daughter craft together and club members shared lessons that they learned throughout the year. The Bat-Mitzvah Banquet was held at the Chabad Center of Chester.
As becoming Bat Mitzvah signifies a new level of community responsibility, club members participated in various community service activities. Recently the girls were excited to create beautiful packages for Safe Homes of Orange County, including decorating pretty boxes and filling the boxes with soaps and lotions, and writing cards.
“Our focus is to challenge and stimulate our members,” says Chana Burston, who directs the club along with Bat-Mitzvah leader Fraidy Kagan of Monsey. “We encourage the girls to learn more about this unique time in their lives, and help them gain new perspectives on their positions as females, as adults, and as future Jewish leaders,” says Burston.
“Members share interests, goals, and experiences, and develop a sense of unity and friendship with other Jewish girls their age,” says Keren Favia, of Highland Mills, whose twin girls, Sarah and Kayla, attend the club. “They learn about the positive contributions they can make to themselves, their families, and the Jewish community at large.”
Another mother, Sharon Murphy, of New Windsor, whose daughter Rachel is an enthusiastic club member, explains why she sends her daughter to the club. “I want my daughter to face the future as a committed, knowledgeable and confident Jewish women who is proud of her Jewish identity.”
Chabad’s Bat Mitzvah Club, for girls in 6th and 7th grade, enjoys club meetings throughout the year for enriching and meaningful discussions about the significance of becoming a Bat Mitzvah, as well as a wide range of crafts, activities and more. The club is open to all Jewish girls, of any affiliation. For more info log onto www.chabadorange.com or call directors Rabbi Pesach and Chana Burston at 845-782-2770.
