Planning a bar mitzvah celebration for a child from divorced parents can present unique challenges, one of which is creating invitations that reflect the family’s situation while being respectful and inclusive.
It’s important to approach the wording with sensitivity, considering both parents’ roles in the child’s life and ensuring that all guests feel welcome and comfortable. Collaboration between parents is crucial to create an invitation that represents the family’s wishes accurately.
Navigating the Invitation Wording
When drafting the invitation wording for a bar mitzvah with divorced parents, consider the following guidelines:
- Acknowledge both parents: List both parents’ names, using their full names or titles (e.g., Mr. and Mrs. or Dr. and Dr.).
- Indicate the relationship: Clearly state the relationship between the child and each parent, such as “son of” or “daughter of.”
- Avoid negative language: Use respectful and positive language, refraining from any references to the divorce or separation.
- Focus on the celebration: The invitation should focus on the child’s accomplishment and the upcoming celebration rather than dwelling on the family structure.
- Include contact information: Provide contact information for both parents, such as phone numbers or email addresses, in case guests have questions.
- Proofread carefully: Before sending out the invitations, carefully review the wording for any errors or potential sensitivities.
Sample Invitation Wording
Here are some sample invitation wordings that you can adapt to suit your specific situation:
- [Child’s name] is turning 13 and we invite you to celebrate their Bar/Bat Mitzvah on [date] at [time] at [location]. RSVP to [parent’s name] at [contact information].
- [Parent 1’s name] and [Parent 2’s name] invite you to celebrate the Bar/Bat Mitzvah of their son/daughter, [child’s name], on [date] at [time] at [location]. RSVP to [contact information].
- [Child’s name], son/daughter of [Parent 1’s name] and [Parent 2’s name], will be called to the Torah on [date] at [time] at [location]. A reception will follow. RSVP to [contact information].
- [Child’s name] is excited to celebrate their Bar/Bat Mitzvah with their loving parents, [Parent 1’s name] and [Parent 2’s name], on [date] at [time] at [location]. RSVP to [contact information].
- [Child’s name], son/daughter of [Parent 1’s name], formerly of [Parent 1’s former last name], and [Parent 2’s name], invites you to celebrate their Bar/Bat Mitzvah on [date] at [time] at [location]. RSVP to [contact information].
- [Child’s name] invites you to join them in celebrating their Bar/Bat Mitzvah. The ceremony will be officiated by [Rabbi’s name] on [date] at [time] at [location]. A reception will follow. RSVP to [contact information].
- [Parent 1’s name] and [Parent 2’s name], parents of [child’s name], invite you to a celebration honoring the Bar/Bat Mitzvah of their beloved child. The service will take place on [date] at [time] at [location]. RSVP to [contact information].
- [Child’s name], son/daughter of [Parent 1’s name] and [Parent 2’s name], will be called to the Torah and celebrated at their Bar/Bat Mitzvah on [date] at [time] at [location]. A festive reception will follow. RSVP to [contact information].
Remember, the most important aspect is to create an invitation that is inclusive, respectful, and reflective of the family’s unique situation. By carefully considering the wording and collaborating with both parents, you can design an invitation that honors the child and invites guests to share in their special day.
