ROME – There is an invisible thread connecting Florida to the Eternal City, woven from generosity and a deep sense of belonging. The Bat Mitzvah Club (BMC) of Rome, which will celebrate its 10th anniversary next year, has been officially renamed The Bernstein Bat Mitzvah Club.
This transformation was made possible by the Bernstein family of Florida. While in Rome to celebrate their son’s Bar Mitzvah, the family felt a profound connection to the local community. They wished for their private celebration to leave a lasting impact, ensuring that the joy of their milestone would foster growth for the young women of Rome for years to come.
Growing Together: The Heart of the BMC
Under the dedicated leadership of Rivkie Lazar, the Club attracts young girls each year as they transition into Jewish adulthood. More than just a classroom, the BMC is a vibrant home for identity where girls gather to study, bond, and have fun.
The magic of the Club extends far beyond the curriculum. For these young women, the BMC has become a place where lifelong friendships are forged, creating bonds as strong as their shared heritage. It has become a true highlight of their social lives; the girls find themselves counting down the days and simply can’t wait to attend each meeting to reconnect with their BMC sisters. This shared journey creates a unique sisterhood that culminates in a deeply moving final ceremony at the end of the year.
In the Footsteps of Queen Esther
This week, the girls have been busy preparing for Purim by diving into the story of the holiday’s central heroine, Queen Esther. By exploring her courage and determination, the young members of the Bernstein BMC are drawing inspiration from her legacy as they navigate their own paths toward adulthood.
With its new name and the upcoming 10th-anniversary milestone, the Club continues to be a cornerstone of inspiration for the next generation of Jewish women in Rome.
