We're behind Ethiopian Bar/Bat Mitzvah 'Twinning'

UJIA's exciting Ethiopian Bar/Bat Mitzvah 'twinning' programme is now in its 12th year.

For young people on the brink of Jewish adulthood, UJIA runs an exciting Ethiopian Bar/Bat Mitzvah programme. The programme 'twins' Ethiopian children at the absorption centre in Tzfat, northern Israel, preparing for their Bar/Bat Mitzvot with counterparts in the UK. The British families sponsor a full programme of Jewish learning for the Ethiopian child, culminating in an emotional ceremony in Jerusalem, where they are sometimes joined by their British 'twin.' Both young people have the opportunity to correspond via email and often form lasting friendships.

Every year around 40 young Ethiopians have a Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebration. Last year 28 Ethiopians were 'twinned' with British youths and 16 families from the UK joined them in Jerusalem thanks to UJIA!
Sally Halon, Manchester UJIA UK Programme Director said "UJIA offers an unmatchable opportunity for the Ethiopian children to forge bonds with their Jewish heritage whilst there is no more meaningful way for a British child to mark a Bar/Bat Mitzvah. We hope as many families as possible will get behind this wonderful 'people-to-people' project."

There will be an information evening at 7.45pm on Wednesday 11th February at Yeshurun Synagogue, Cheadle, where the Director of the 'Twinning' programme, Anthea Masson will speak about the opportunity for parents and children who are planning a Bar/Bat Mitzvah to get involved. There will also be a short film about the history of the Ethiopian Aliyah.

For more information or to RSVP please contact Sally Halon
or call
0161 740 1825 ext 3