PaulaFormer American Idol judge Paula Abdul was raised in the Jewish faith longed for an opportunity to visit the Holy Land as a tourist and will finally get her wish on a 10-day trip to Israel. She also wanted to celebrate her bat mitzvah as an adult and she did.

Usually girls celebrate their bat mitzvah between the ages of 12 and 13. The ceremony included reading from the Torah, learning prayers, and learning more about Jewish tradition. Originally the ceremony was slated at the Western wall in Jerusalem, but was moved to Safed to escape the media.

Her itinerary will also include museums and additional holy sites as a guest of the country.

The 51-year-old always felt a spiritual connection, feeling she’s continually maturing in her faith.

She told the AP “Beyond being Jewish, I’ve always found myself to be very much in tune with spirituality.”

According to reports, the pop singer said she already “didn’t want to leave” after receiving a warm welcome from the community along with a meeting at the home of President Shimon Peres.

“To the lovely people of #Israel -I’m enjoying my stay in your beautiful country! Your warmth and kindness continue to enrich my visit. xoP,” Abdul posted on her Twitter.

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