Teachings: Conversion

What's Involved in Converting to Judaism

By: 
Rabbi Goldie Milgram

a. It is a process to which a soul feels internally called.

b. This feeling may rise and fall, or ultimately abate. It may turn out that your soul needed to learn about Judaism, experience it and then return to another tradition or move on to another religion, no religion, or a different denominational context. There will be no hard feelings about this among your teachers, soul journeys vary in every life time.

c. Converstion involves a minimum of a year of study and engagement with the core practices of living as a Jew. During this time you will:

Read more »

Ritual for Converting to Judaism

By: 
Rabbi Goldie Milgram

Planning a conversion ritual for yourself, a friend, congregant or a baby? Welcome to this tent of a loving, hopeful, caring people. Consider the ideas below. If what you really want to do is reflect on concerns about male circumcision a bit more, here is a remarkable experience that shifted my thoughts on the rite.

1. Who will be at the ritual? I recommend a few close friends (1-3), a few family members (if this feels safe and appropriate (1-3 or 4), the bet din (3 rabbis or ordained cantors, or in some cases available committed Jews). A minyan is not required. Too many people dilute the profound spiritual intimacy of the moment...often this ritual is nice in the smallest possible gathering. [Later, on Shabbat,

Read more »

Answers to Questions of Spiritual Importance

Sent by Readers
By: 
Rabbi Shohama Harris Wiener

Must I Believe?

Dear Reb Shohama,

I’ve finally found a synagogue where I feel joyful, peaceful, and at home. Problem is, the Rabbi really believes in God and I don’t. I feel like a fraud. What do you suggest? Sincerely, Louise

Read more »