Grandma’s simcha joy after care home hosts grandson’s barmitzvah

A Jewish Care home hosted its first barmitzvah this week to enable one of its residents to take part in her grandson’s celebrations.

Jamie Wilford celebrated his special day at Jewish Care’s Princess Alexandra Home in front of proud resident Mavis Roth, 81, and her husband Joseph, who volunteers at the home.

“We couldn’t have a barmitzvah without Jamie’s grandmother participating in some way,” said his mother Aviva.

“We felt it would be really meaningful for him to share this special simcha with his grandma and all the residents, volunteers and staff at the home who know him well now.”

The youngster, a member of Northwood United Synagogue, who starts at Haberdashers’ School in September, read the first part of his barmitzvah sedra and the haftorah.

After the ceremony, he said: “I didn’t realise how emotional it would be for me to have a barmitzvah at grandma’s home. She was so happy and proud and all her friends loved it too.”

Home Manager Elizabeth Mandeya said: “We’ve had a barmitzvah lunch and a wedding tea, all we need now is a brit milah breakfast!”