Learning
Children's Education
Bar/Bat Mitzvah Preparation
Bar & Bat Mitzvah Training for sixth and seventh graders with Rabbi Jill includes:
Reading and discussing a section of the Torah together each week, starting at the beginning of the Torah
Learning the prayers before and after the Torah and Haftarah
Chanting from a Torah portion
Chanting from a Haftarah portion
Understanding the Torah and Haftarah portions
Writing a D'var Torah
Learning about the prayer service, holidays, and some Jewish history
Our Unique Approach to Bar & Bat Mitzvah
Our Rabbi studies with each child individually, teaching all the prayers for a Bar/Bat Mitzvah service and also how to chant Torah and Haftarah. The children learn about Jewish Holidays and Jewish History. However, the most important and meaningful part of the lessons is reading the Torah together, discussing it, and interpreting it, so that the young person derives meaning and value from the process of Bar/Bat Mitzvah.
Children who study the Torah in this manner come away knowing what the Torah says, having an opinion about it, and having a real association with the Torah and Judaism. The lessons provide spiritual and intellectual food for young minds and hearts, and the children actually enjoy the lessons as they grow.
At The Actors’ Temple, each student’s voice is heard and appreciated. We celebrate the diversity of Jewish life and families in Manhattan, and welcome all families and students with an interest in connecting to Judaism. No prior knowledge is required. Children who have not studied Hebrew are welcome.
Class Schedule
Lessons are scheduled after school or on Sundays, at mutually convenient times.
Registration
To inquire about Bar & Bat Mitzvah lessons, please send an email to: info@theactorstemple.org.
Adult Education
Weekly Torah Study
Join us Wednesdays, 7:30-9:30 PM, studying Torah, Prophets, and Writings in English with Rabbi Jill at 96th Street. Please contact us for more details concerning what we are currently studying, and check the weekly bulletin on our Events page before showing up to make sure the class is being held that week.
One Day Hebrew Review
The Actors' Temple participates in the Read Hebrew America and Canada program, a one day review program offered continent wide, in conjunction with the National Jewish Outreach Program (NJOP), which also offers many other excellent programs and courses throughout the year.
Conversion
Study with Rabbi Jill for Conversion, on an individual basis, where your questions will be answered with sensitivity, respect, and thoughtfulness.
Adult Bar/Bat Mitzvah
Study with Rabbi Jill for an Adult Bar or Bat Mitzvah. Discover the deeper meanings in the Torah, learn to chant Torah and Haftarah, have confidence saying the prayers, and feel at home in the service.