Conversion

“And Ruth said: Do not urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.” (Book of Ruth 1:16)

Have you been looking for something that speaks to your spirit but couldn’t figure out what it was? Or have you found your life partner and want to share in his or her religion? No matter the reason, our rabbi is ready to help you explore a path toward a Jewish life.

Everyone’s path toward conversion is different and so there is no set period of time in which one completes the conversion process.  In general, you must live like a Jew for an entire Jewish year, including participating in Friday night and Shabbat morning services at least twice a month during that time, and you must also attend at least one holiday service of every Jewish holiday.  We also offer an Introduction to Judaism class and a Beginners’ Hebrew class, both of which you are required to participate in, and complete, before you are formally considered for conversion.  All of these requirements can be worked on simultaneously.  If you are partnered with someone Jewish, we suggest your Jewish partner participate with you in the classes.  If you think you may want to join the Jewish people, you can begin your exploration anytime, by attending services and any classes we have.

According to the laws of the Conservative movement, conversion for men includes circumcision for those who are not yet circumcised, or hatafat dam brit (a drawing of blood) for those who are. Conversion for both men and women includes immersion in a mikvah (ritual bath) individually, in front of a same-gendered guide.

Jews-by-choice are welcomed to participate in all synagogue activities, services, and programs. We would be delighted to celebrate your conversion with an aliyah, a Torah honor.

To begin on the pathway to conversion, please contact the office at office@tifereth.org to set up an appointment with the rabbi.