It’s Never Too Late

WHC Launches Adult B’nei Mitzvah Program

A new nine-month program invites WHC members to reach one of Judaism’s most cherished milestones on their own terms, in their own time.

There are many reasons someone may arrive at this moment in life without having become b’nei mitzvah. Perhaps the opportunity wasn’t available growing up. Perhaps Jewish life called more loudly later in adulthood. Perhaps it’s simply always felt like unfinished business. Whatever the reason, Washington Hebrew Congregation is opening the door.

Beginning this fall, WHC will launch its Adult B’nei Mitzvah Program — a nine-month journey of learning, community, and spiritual preparation culminating with a Shabbat morning service on May 8, 2027. Open exclusively to WHC members, Cantor Susan Bortnick will lead the program, drawing on the full breadth of WHC’s clergy and educational team.

The experience begins with an individual meeting with Cantor Bortnick, where participants share what has brought them to this milestone and receive an assessment of their Hebrew background. For those who are newer to Hebrew reading (or just a little rusty), WHC will offer an optional four-week foundational course.

From there, the full cohort gathers weekly, weaving together rich Jewish learning and hands-on service preparation. Fall sessions include “Unlocking Prayer” with Cantor Bortnick — a deep exploration of the liturgy at the heart of Shabbat morning worship — followed by “Books of the Bible,” a multi-week series taught by WHC clergy that uses the themes of each biblical book as a launching point for broader Jewish conversation. Participants also share Shabbat experiences throughout the year, building the bonds of a genuine community.

In the winter and spring, the program pivots toward preparation: Haftarah study, Torah portion work alongside Cantor Bortnick and one of our rabbis, collaborative speech writing, and full rehearsals in the sanctuary. By the time May 8 arrives, participants will be ready — not just technically, but spiritually and communally.

“This program is about far more than a single day,” said Cantor Bortnick. “It’s about building a community of adults who choose to deepen their Jewish lives together. That’s a profound and beautiful thing.”

The Adult B’nei Mitzvah Program is $1,100 for WHC members (the optional Hebrew course is an additional $200). Space is limited.

To learn more and register, visit whctemple.org/classes or contact Becca Cook at rcook@whctemple.org.