For Susan Landsman, becoming a bat mitzvah was something she thought about occasionally over the years, but never seriously contemplated.
“I just never had the opportunity to do it, and neither did my sister,” said Landsman, 74, a Baltimore native whose family belonged to the old Rogers Avenue Synagogue.
But about a year ago, Landsman, a resident at Atrium Village in Owings Mills for the past two years, was chatting about her life with Dena Schrier, activities coordinator at the retirement community. When learning that Landsman never become a bat mitzvah, Schrier told her, “We’ll, we’re going to make it happen and have a big party, too!”
On Sunday, May 31, Landsman became a daughter of the commandment, surrounded by family, friends, fellow residents and staff.
The gathering featured hors d’oeurves and a cake in honor of Landsman, whose two children and four grandchildren were all in attendance.
“I really enjoyed it,” said Landsman, a retired car dealership finance director “I’d never spoken before a group before. But once I got started, I was OK.”
The ceremony, which was completely in English, included readings, blessings, music and a celebration.
“It was all really wonderful,” said Landsman, who attends Shabbat services every Friday night at Atrium Village.
Schrier characterized Landsman as “a kind and joyful resident who loves music, family, friendship and spending time with others in our community. This celebration is not only about a milestone she missed as a child, but also about the importance of community, lifelong dreams and creating meaningful moments at every age.”
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