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CONVERTING TO JUDAISM


Welcome!

We are excited that you want to learn more about Judaism. Congregation Bnai Shalom reflects a traditional Jewish approach to conversion, with a focus on learning and observance.

Individuals and families will meet with Rabbi Melody to discuss an individualized course of study that will include both study sessions with the rabbi and classes within the larger Lehigh Valley Jewish Community.

Participants will be encouraged to incorporate Jewish ritual and observance into their daily lives, along with regular attendance at Congregation Bnai Shalom’s religious services. The length of the process varies depending on individual needs, but usually requires at least a year. The process can be time consuming and emotionally demanding, but it is our hope that it is also an opportunity for deep reflection and spiritual growth.

At the end of the course of study, the potential convert has the opportunity to process the experience through meeting with a beit din (rabbinical court).

The final step comes when the new member of the Jewish people immerse him or herself in a mikvah (ritual bath) symbolizing the spiritual transformation.

If you are interested in learning more about converting to Judaism, please contact Rabbi Melody Davis.

If you are looking to learn more about Judaism, we recommend the Schocken Guide to Jewish Books. It is currently out of print, but used copies are available at a reasonable price at this literature link at Amazon.com.

To learn more about conversion ceremonies, please see Ritualwell.org.

Finally, a great information about Mikvaot (ritual baths) can be found at the website of the Mayyim Hayyim Mikvah outside of Boston.