First-ever Bar Mitzvah held at San Quentin

Rabbi Jhos (left) sits with incarcerated participants who are preparing to read from the Torah. (Photo by Marcus Casillas // SQNews)

On July 16, 2026, San Quentin Rehabilitation Center held its inaugural Bar Mitzvah, a Jewish celebration of manhood. Residents, guests, and family members had the privilege of participating in and experiencing a novel and ceremonial event. SQ volunteer Kiki L. served as the hostess, inviting the most esteemed guests to join the Bar Mitzvah celebration.

“I am speechless. These individuals deserve this honor,” expressed Kiki. “This is truly a lifetime achievement.”

During the event, Rabbi Jhos supported resident Kelon Williams as he unveiled the Torah.

Rabbi Jhos support resident Kelon Williams as he undress the Torah. (Photo by Marcus Casillas // SQNews)

Resident band, The Greater Good, performed soothing Hebrew prayer hymns Modeh Ani and Oseh Shalom from the Torah, but they infused it with an original musical composition, setting the tone for the celebration.

“Although I am not Jewish, I thoroughly enjoyed the event. I consistently find solace in the Rabbi’s message,” stated resident Don Carrillo, a bass guitar player with The Greater Good.

Resident David Medina dedicated his Bar Mitzvah and the receiving of his Tallit, a prayer shawl to his grandmother Mary Macedo. Medina recalled his grandmother, in her eighties, would kneel to pray and worship the Creator.

Medina’s parents, George and Trisha Medina, provided unwavering support to their son and said, “David is a blessing. He consistently brought joy to our hearts, even during challenging times, and we hold him in the highest regard.”

SQ volunteer Kiki singing Simon Tiv and Mazel Tov during celebration. (Photo by Marcus Casillas // SQNews)

Amy Tobin, an educator at the prison, extended her blessings to all the Bar Mitzvah participants, addressing them directly: “I trust that the Torah within you imparts kindness, self-compassion, and the ability to receive and impart it. May this guide you toward righteous action, both significant and minor,” Tobin said.

Kiki concludes the event with the symbolic breaking of bread—or in this instance, bagels—while expressing a heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the bar mitzvah: “Over 350 individuals from the Bay Area and beyond supported and celebrated this bar mitzvah by providing financial contributions. To all, I say… Mazel tov!”