The event, held at Yerushalayim’s Ramban Synagogue located in the German Colony, was made possible thanks to a family in Baltimore who were exploring a meaningful Bat Mitzvah opportunity for their daughter, who was turning 12. They learned about Our People and the incredible work it does. They proposed partnering with Our People to create a meaningful Bat Mitzvah event for multiple Israeli girls who have endured so much since the beginning of the war.

Within weeks, friends and family from all over joined in to support this worthy cause. The nine Israeli Bat Mitzvah girls, all aged 12, came from various parts of Israel. Each had a father who had been called up to serve in the IDF since the war began. For many of these families, the absence of their fathers during such a critical and difficult time has been a source of deep emotional strain. The Bat Mitzvah event, however, offered a moment of respite and joy.

The celebration included a Hafrashas Challah ceremony, lively dancing, gifts for the girls and their mothers, a shared sense of camaraderie and support, and a full dinner.

Our People, a Jerusalem nonprofit originally established after the war in Ukraine to assist in the absorption and Jewish identity programming for Russian-speaking families, has utilized its considerable war experience to provide financial, social, and emotional support to Israeli children and families affected by the ongoing war. This was the 10th group Bar and Bat Mitzvah event organized by Our People this year.

Leah Aharoni, Executive Director of Our People, spoke about the significance of the group Bat Mitzvah. “In times of crisis, it’s easy for the needs of children to be overlooked,” she said. “But these girls are stepping into adulthood without their fathers by their sides. This celebration was a way to affirm their strength, resilience, and their place in the Jewish community. It was an honor for Our People to be part of this important milestone in their lives.”

The event was attended by family members, community leaders, and supporters from across Israel. Each of the girls received a special gift from Our People, a symbolic gesture of connection and solidarity during a time of great national struggle.

Each mother of a Bat Mitzvah girl had a chance to share a few words with her daughter during the event. One mother’s words were particularly inspiring:

“Look around the room and always remember that Am Yisrael is a small nation but one big family with one Neshama. You are privileged to be a part of that family.
In this room, you are surrounded by true superheroes—the real Chashmona’im of today. These champions and their families are fighting for our existence in Israel and around the whole world.
Now, as you become a Bas Mitzvah, we give you a bracha that you should always feel proud and special to be part of Am Yisrael. You should continue to do lots of chessed and give Nachas to your parents and Hashem in everything you do.
And may we all see the return of all the hostages, the safe return of all our Chayalim, and Mashiach Tzidkeinu very soon!
Am Yisrael Chai! Mazel Tov!”

As the evening came to a close, the girls and their families expressed deep gratitude for the event, which not only marked a new chapter in their lives but also served as a reminder of the strength and resilience of the Israeli people in the face of adversity.

“This is a moment of light, a sign that even in dark times, there is hope,” said one of the Bat Mitzvah girls. “We will remember this day forever.”

BJL was honored to be present and see the smiles on the Bat Mitzvah girls’ faces, along with the seminary girls who came to help and serve the meal. It was truly a momentous occasion.