284 - In Honor of Becoming a Bar Mitzvah

October 10, 2002

My wonderful friend, Rabbi Simkha Weintraub, rabbinic director of the National Center for Jewish Healing was having a "Jewish parent" moment last week when he told me about the bustle of preparations for his son, Adin's bar mitzvah this Shabbat, when he will be called to the Torah and read from Parashat Noach - the story of Noah. This special passage in the life of a Jewish child reflects the generational span. In many synagogues, a Torah scroll is passed from grandparent to parent to child as the Torah service begins.

Two Hundred Eighty-Four

In Honor of Becoming a Bar Mitzvah

Almighty One, this leaping place to mitzvot is just one jump.
Dedicate today's aliyah to growing awareness and knowledge:
It is inheritance beyond measure, life-sustaining and precious,
Nourishment for this son in whom You find favor.

Zion's promise abides as he confirms Your covenant,
Answering Your charge with his talents and devotion;
Keep him in safety, as Noach was storm-sheltered,
Keen to experience the richness of Your world.
Align him to holiness, bless him with wholeness,
Illustrate his stories with rainbow hues.

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