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The
Confirmation Ceremony
Reform Perspective
by Rivka C. Berman
At
some temples, confirmation is known as Kabbalat Torah, the words mean
accepting the Torah. This is the intent of the ceremony, to demonstrate the
teens acceptance of Judaism. Confirmation/Kabbalat Torah is celebrated by
groups of teens, unlike the individual bar/bat mitzvah ceremony.
Often confirmation is scheduled to coincide with the Shavuot holiday, which
commemorates the giving of the Ten Commandments. Its a good time of year for
this celebration. First, Shavuot falls out around June the month of graduation
ceremonies. Second, the symbolism of receiving the Torah is highly appropriate
for the confirmation that marks a deeper acceptance of Judaism.
Confirmation age is generally between 15 to18 years.
Ceremonies vary. Confirmation classes might lead a portion of the Friday night
services. They may be asked to write a presentation, such as one on the theme
Where we are. Where we are going. One goal of confirmation is to keep
teenagers involved in synagogue life, so they may be given
responsibilities/privileges such as handing out the prayer books, changing the
page number display as the service progresses, or acting as ushers.
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