Lifecycle-Conversion

Candidates must begin and extended period of study by enrolling in our Thursday night Introduction to Jewish Life course. Course topics will include an overview of Jewish holidays, practices, faith, history, and an intro to Hebrew. Additional options for appropriate study may be arranged on a case by case basis.

Once study is underway, conversion candidates will meet periodically with their sponsoring rabbi. These meetings serve as a “safe space” in which both candidates and sponsors discuss the process of developing Jewish identity: taking on specific mitzvot, finding a place in the Utah Jewish community, building a sense of Jewish peoplehood and a relationship with Israel, and exploring how conversion impacts work, family, and personal relationships.

Please note that there is no set time frame for conversion. Each individual process is unique and can range anywhere from a period of several months to years.

One of the final steps in the conversion process includes an appearance before a Beit Din (usually a panel of the candidate’s sponsor and two rabbis), in which the candidate discusses their journey toward Judaism and affirms their commitment to living a life of mitzvot. Pending approval by the Beit Din, immersion in a mikvah follows. In keeping with the choice of Congregation Kol Ami as a spiritual home, successful conversion candidates are expected to join the synagogue as members.

To enroll in our Introduction to Jewish Life course, please fill out the form below:

If you have questions, please contact the Rabbi Samuel L. Spector.