I am having a Bar Mitzvah because I have been on this path my whole life. I went to Jewish Preschool. I went to the Jewish Day School. I went through Beth El’s religious school. I have done a lot in preparing for today. I’ve learned how to read Hebrew and about the history of the Jews. Becoming Bar Mitzvah means I am becoming a man in Judaism. It means I am part of the community and can take on the responsibility of being a Jew for myself. Up until now it was my parents who did that. I am proud of being Jewish and that I stand out from the rest of the world.

For my Mitzvah project I am volunteering at the Friendship Circle in Charlotte. The Friendship Circle pairs local teens with kids who have special needs. I am fulfilling the mitzvah of helping those with disabilities.

Noah is the son of Heather and Scott. He is the grandson of Dianne Salam, Bill and Leslie Salam, and Glenn and Arlene Kerns. He is the brother of Sam and Evie.

Words of Mazel Tov can be send to scott.salam@gmail.com.