I found that the difference between a bar/bat mitzvah at etz is that it is a Shabbat service WITH a bar/bat mitzvah, versus other congregations we have gone to where Saturday morning IS the bar/bat mitzvah. JB

The Bar Mitzvah was life changing for us.  (Our son)'s growth was amazing, including and especially Friday and Saturday.  I think his dvar Torah subject was difficult for a 13 year old to grasp, but, by Saturday, I think (he) had some feeling for what being blessed by G-d was to him personally.  Thank you for suggesting that topic.  On Sunday, we had a quiet dinner at home with (my husband)'s dad and my parents.  The grandparents have not seen each other since we were married 18 years ago.  Later, (my husband) commented that he soaked it in as a moment of blessing, as you had mentioned with your family.

Many of our life long friends and family were amazed by the Bar Miztvah process and by (our son).  Those of both the Jewish faith and Christian faith said that they found prayers in service that touched them.  Without a doubt, this process has brought me closer to my Jewish faith.  I am delighted to begin this process with (our daughter).  KG

Thank you again for all you did to make this event go so well and be someaningful for all involved. I truly appreciate it. I was completely happy with how it went - it couldn't have been better. JR

Just wanted to let you know I thought you did a great job at the service and I appreciate the effort and the time you spent with (our son) in preparation.

All the relatives from the east, be they religious or not, considered it one of the most enjoyable services ever. It is rare for any topic to be discussed by that crowd and not have at least one criticism but there were none - only raves. My niece said it was the first time ever she was not bored. GK

First and foremost I want to thank you. I want to thank you for
your flexibility, openness and willingness to work with our family and
support a little more of a circus. I sincerely wanted you to know how much
it was appreciated. As you know, I am not very religious, but believe that
by your flexibility you supporting an open process that some younger family
members of mine and I imagine all of those lives you touch were turned on to
all of this. I admire and respect your willingness to be inclusive and in
the end believe this kind of attitude will support continuing so many of
these important rituals, traditions etc..I honor my family and ancestors
trying to carry all of this on and appreciate how you supported all of this
despite my circus with all the Hebrew name information, number of people, my
brother and EVERYTHING. I am thankful for one of the most beautiful mornings of my life....

CK