As most of you already know, I was born in the Former Soviet Union and immigrated to the United States with my parents in 1978. We came here as religious refugees, having fled from an oppressive, antisemitic country that prohibited any form of worship, but especially Judaism.

My parents, David, z"l, and Mila Olbinsky, were Holocaust survivors, but prior to WWII, both of their families lived a proudly Jewish life. In fact, I recently found out that my great-grandfather was a rabbi. Imagine what a war and sanctioned hate did in the span of a generation!

When we came to America, my priority was learning English, studying, and fitting in. We did not belong to a synagogue or practice Judaism in the traditional way. However, the embers were lit at Camp Wise, an overnight Jewish camp, that I attended when I was 12, and were set ablaze two years later, when I spent six weeks in Israel on a study program. These experiences and the friendships I made, transfomed me, and I have lived a proud, Jewish life since then.

After October 7, my faith only strengthened, and becoming a Bat Mitzvah became a need, not just a dream. And now, 44 years late, but I'm finally realizing this dream of reading from the Torah.

Because you've been an important part of our life, my family and I hope that you will join us in celebrating this milestone occasion. 

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With much love,

Regina and family

Ray, Emily, Cory & Jaime, Jeremy, and my mom, Mila

Max & Milo