The establishment of a new organization to enable Jewish youngsters to make special pilgrimages to Israel was announced here today. Known as the National Bar Mitzvah Club, it is the first of its kind in the United States and is headed by Rabbi Harry Halpern, of Brooklyn.
Rabbi Halpern, a former chairman of the Rabbinical Assembly of America, said that the club is devoted “to making the religious ceremonies of Bar Mitzvah and Bat Mitzvah more meaningful experiences through pilgrimages to Israel. ” He explained that Jewish youngsters become eligible for membership in the National Bar Mitzvah Club at the age of 13. Funds for a member’s trip and summer long stay in Israel are derived from membership dues, paid over a three-year period.
The youngsters go to Israel when they become 16. Vice-chairman of the Club is Jules Freed, chairman of the Jewish Education Committee of New York. Mrs. Rose L. Halprin, chairman of the Jewish Agency for Israel-American Section, Inc., is treasurer. Secretary is Avraham Schenker, deputy member of the Jewish Agency executive. Mrs. Beatrice G. Weiss is executive director.
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