The Conversion Process

Once someone decides that conversion is the right path, the conversion process may involve up to a year of study. Conversion typically includes one of several group “Introduction to Judaism” classes, offered by different organizations in the community, and about twenty individual meetings with one of our rabbis. During the year, the prospective convert will attend services and activities, engage in home rituals and observances, and develop their own understanding of Jewish practices and beliefs.
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When the prospective convert has completed their initial studies, they will undergo the formal conversion ritual:
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1. Meeting with a Beit Din, a Jewish court of three rabbis, to announce their intent to complete the process, and display the sincerity of their convictions in belief and practice.
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2. Immersing in a Mikvah. Congregation B’nai Torah is host to a community mikvah.
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3. In addition, men wishing to covert must be circumcised. Those who have already been circumcised will undergo a symbolic ritual confirming their intent to enter the covenant.