BARJ and Confirmation: Post B’nai Mitzvah

Bergen Academy of Reform Judaism (BARJ)

At the completion of the 7th grade, our students continue their Jewish education in the multi-congregational (five member Temples) Bergen Academy of Reform Judaism (BARJ).

The BARJ curriculum is five years long and encompasses our Confirmation and high school graduation requirements. BARJ meets at Temple Emeth starting with the 2009-2010 school year.

The program includes core and elective courses and college credit will soon be available in the higher level courses. For specific information please refer to the BARJ website or call them at (201) 722–0750.

Confirmation

Created by the Reform Movement, Confirmation signifies the acceptance of the Confirmands as adult members of the Jewish community. Confirmation at Temple Emeth is held during the evening service of the spring holiday of Shavuot. To be eligible, students must have been enrolled in the Temple Emeth Religious School from at least grade 7 and continue their formal Jewish education through grades 8, 9 and 10.

In addition to attending BARJ's 10th grade program, Confirmands write an essay which asks them to reflect on a topic of Jewish importance and how it impacts their Jewish identity. The essay selected as best by a panel of judges is awarded the Wilford Weill Memorial Essay Award. The rabbi also meets with the Confirmands periodically in order to help them develop a more mature appreciation of Judaism.