Learning:
The experience of conversion to Judaism begins with the study of its laws, rituals, concepts and history and the incorporation of this learning into personal practice and observance. Join our 22-week virtual Jewish Questions classes taught by Rabbi Jonthan Leener, head rabbi of the Prospect Heights Shul, and Rabbi Avram Mlotek, rabbi, chazzan, writer, Yiddish actor and licensed social worker, to delve into the rich traditions that have shaped the Jewish people for three thousand years.
Circumcision:
Men are required to undergo a circumcision as part of the conversion process. Since many males are circumcised at birth, this process varies in each case. Our mohel, Rabbi Eliezer Lawrence will guide you through this part of the process.
Beit Din:
Each conversion candidate will have the opportunity to meet with the members of the beit din, the rabbinical court, upon the completion of their learning. The beit din, consisting of three rabbis, will provide each candidate the chance to share his/her individual journey to Judaism. The rabbis will be able to affirm this journey and to provide guidance for their lives as part of the Jewish people.
Immersion in the Mikvah:
The conversion process concludes with the immersion in the mikvah, the Jewish ritual bath. Our immersions take place at the West Side Mikvah in Manhattan. Each woman is accompanied to the mikvah by a trained woman chaperone and each man is accompanied by one of the rabbis. The rabbis certify the immersion and present the candidate with a conversion certificate that is signed and stamped by the members of the beit din.
