Congregation Beth Am is a reform synagogue nestled in a tranquil space in Los Altos. Surrounded by nature, the wooden sanctuary has a subtle, organic feel. Ellen’s Congregation Beth Am Bat Mitzvah felt very warm and intimate. Many of the guests were Russian Jews, whose families had emigrated from the former Soviet Union. Ellen’s Bat Mitzvah was in many ways a celebration of the religious freedom that her family had sought. Ellen prepared diligently for the service. Her reading of the Torah was impeccable. It was obvious that the cantor, the rabbi, and most of all, her parents, were very proud of her accomplishment.

Congregation Beth Am Bat Mitzvah