In addition to the 13 Steps, the Society for Humanistic Judaism offers assistance in adding a variety of modules to the basic program. These module additions are available to those who have already purchased the program and become members of the Society for Humanistic Judaism. You can choose as many modules as you want. If you would prefer someone to guide you through the entire program, we will match you with those individual educators who combine the first 3 modules into one program.
There are a number of educators who will work with your child at a distance and provide basic Jewish education independent of B Mitzvah preparation. Contact the SHJ Rabbi for resources.
Costs
Costs are set by the educator.
The Society for Humanistic Judaism can match you with a mentor who will work with your child to develop the B Mitzvah Presentation. Contact the SHJ Rabbi for resources.
Costs
Costs are set by the mentor.
Ceremonialist
Please exercise this option nine to twelve months prior to the B Mitzvah. There are some rabbis and leaders who could be selected to travel to your location to officiate the ceremony. In many cases, the ceremonialist will require involvement in choosing the topic, the preparation and approval of the B Mitzvah presentation and the preparation and approval of the ceremony program. Contact the SHJ Rabbi for resources.
Family Responsibilities
Families are responsible for guiding their children through the steps, finding a Hebrew tutor if desired, booking the facility, hiring or choosing a ceremonial leader and a musician/s to play, sing, and lead the music and preparing the ceremony and print program.
Costs
Costs for a ceremonialist are set by the ceremonialist and will typically cover an honorarium and all travel expenses, including air travel, transfers to and from the airport and hotel accommodations.
Jewish Language or Song
Some students choose to read a selection in Hebrew, Bible or Talmud passage, poetry or prose. The rabbi or leader will assist the student in choosing a portion and work with them to become proficient in reading the selection.
For those students who are musically inclined singing a Hebrew song may also be chosen to demonstrate their skill in reading/singing Hebrew words. Contact the SHJ Rabbi for resources.
Humanistic Approach to a Torah Portion
In Humanistic Judaism a Torah portion can be included. Independent of learning to read Hebrew, the SHJ can provide you with a list of Torah portions that lend themselves to analysis. That is, the student is not limited to the Torah reading that comes closest to his/her birthday. The student, along with the leader, will prepare a Humanistic interpretation of the Torah Portion.
Costs
Costs for Humanistic Torah Portion or Hebrew reading tutoring is set by the tutor.
