Enroll now in Bar Mitzvah Discovery program

Rabbi Eli Broner’s students describe him as the "cool rabbi." Since arriving in the Conejo Valley six years ago, Broner has spent most of his time educating children and teenagers and especially those preparing for their Bar Mitzvah day. Broner, 26, shares a keen rapport and camaraderie with his students.

The rabbi has joined with the Ina Levine and Samuel Neustadt Chai Center for Teens to create the Bar Mitzvah Discovery Program. The 16-week course focuses on the significance of the Bar Mitzvah from contemporary and historical perspectives.

Boys will learn the structure and deeper meanings behind the Torah and Prayer Service and will be shown how to don tefillin. They will examine Jewish concepts that are fundamental to understanding and appreciating their heritage and rituals and will be introduced to Maimonides’ "Thirteen Principles of the Jewish Faith."

"While each boy will still need individual instruction to prepare him for his own Torah portion, they will all gain tremendously from being together in a group setting where they can share their feelings and apprehensions. They’re under a lot of pressure from school and peers that takes its toll and now they’re being told that they have to study for a Bar Mitzvah and that they’re entering religious manhood. There’s confusion, excitement tempered with anxiety, and even doubt sometimes. The Discovery Program will attempt to put everything into perspective and help them maintain a positive outlook as they grow together," according to the rabbi.

The Bar Mitzvah Discovery Program is open to all Jewish boys regardless of affiliation or background. Classes will begin Sun., Nov. 2 at the Chai Center for Teens. For more information or to receive a brochure, please call Rabbi Sapo at (805) 374-8666.