My favorite thing about being Jewish is the community. I have so many Jewish friends and have loved getting to know them. I also love my home away from home, Camp Coleman. I have made so many life-long memories at there and I hope to make many more.

To me, becoming a Bar Mitzvah means having a larger role in the community. As people treat me more like an adult, I also have a role in participating in services, learning, and helping those who are in need.

Perseverance is an important quality when learning Hebrew. Learning Hebrew requires patience and practice. Fortunately, I had help from teachers and tutors. But I also learned that I am capable of doing difficult things.

For my mitzvah project, I made sandwiches for the homeless shelter. I created a fundraiser, bought the supplies, and then gathered my friends to help me make the food. We made hundreds of sandwiches and bagged lunches with two sandwiches in each bag, a bottle of water, chips, a banana, and a cream pie for dessert. My mom and I then delivered the sandwiches to the homeless shelter.

I plan to keep learning about Judaism through Camp Coleman and Hebrew High. Going to Hebrew High will help me stay in touch with friends and keep learning about my religion as well. I plan to be an active member of our community.

Andrew Lord is the son of Annie and Harrison Lord. He has a younger sister, Hadley. Send messages of congratulations.