Virtual Bar Mitzvah
Virtual b’nai mitzvahs are a part of life now. The kid reads Torah and delivers a d’var Torah, often over Zoom, to an audience of friends and family.
This bar mitzvah is made possible by the power of technology! If you can't get together in person, invite guests to celebrate virtually with a video party. Get the perfect bar mitzvah invitations for your celebration like this modern design that's trendy and stylish. All you need to do is ensure that everyone has access to the internet, a camera or microphone for the event.
This is also where quarantine plus modern technology is a real blessing. A family member who couldn’t fly over from Israel, Europe or wherever to attend, can now be included. This is much better than just watching a video of the celebration, after the event. Who would you love to share your Simcha with but they were unable to attend? The more the merrier. Video links are so easy to set up and are available around the globe. Help your elderly relatives and technophobes get set up on video link and then hold an international celebration. Celebrating life’s milestones, creating joy, and connecting with friends and community are Jewish obligations and must continue in spite of this deadly virus.
Top Tips for a Virtual Bar Bat Mitzvah Service
Select a Conference Service – Zoom, Google Meet, Facetime are all options. Zoom is the most popular. Make sure you can record everything!
Internet connection – Check the signal strength in the room where you want to have your service; you may need to purchase a WIFI booster or mesh system.
Audio – Consider using a plug in speaker so guests can hear you and your clergy.
Ask a Friend or Family Member to Host the Call – This will allow you to be present and not distracted during the service.
Ask a Friend or Family Member to Record the Service – To capture all of your guests, ask someone and make them a “host” so they can record the service, from their home, and scroll through the additional screens of guests/participants so you have a video memory of everyone who attended.
Additional Ideas to Keep the Service Festive and Fun
Create an At-Home Kiddush bag – If you have already printed your kippahs or programs, why not hand deliver or mail them to your guests for the virtual service?
Introduction - Just like at a live bat mitzvah party, invite the DJ to introduce the bat mitzvah girl and her family while playing their favorite tunes.
Virtual Mitzvah Care Package – Things to include: a program of the service, a personalized yarmulke and some favorite treats that they would have gotten in a hotel welcome bag or as part of the favor. And of course a note saying how much it means to us that they are watching the service.
Plan a Bar Bat Mitzvah Drive-By Parade to Celebrate – Your child has worked so hard to prepare for their big day. Celebrate with family and friends through a drive-by parade at your house. Many entertainment companies will even bring their DJs and equipment to your driveway – just ask your vendor!
Dress Up! – This is a special day, so let go of the comfy quarantine clothes and put on what you’d originally planned to wear for your temple service.
Take Photos – The best angle for your service (being eye level with your computer), blocks your sight line for photos. In order to commemorate this important day, stage some photos in advance with your child and other participants.