BAR MITZVAH

According to Jewish law, a young man becomes morally responsible for his actions at the age of thirteen. At that age, he becomes a Bar Mitzvah which translates to "son of the commandments." This change of status is usually celebrated in synagogue with the Bar Mitzvah reading from the Torah and is sometimes followed by a celebratory meal.

Many Christian religions celebrate a similar rite of passage known as Confirmation. In this case, the age is not fixed and the focus is on completing the initiation into the religion which began at Baptism. This event is celebrated in church and usually includes the taking of the name of a saint whom the person can count on as a patron.

To every Bar Mitzvah of every religion, I say Mazel tov!

:O)