Sponsored by: Community You Can Believe In
Conversion
Conversion
“And Ruth said: Do not urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.” (Book of Ruth 1:16)
Are you interested in casting your lot with the Jewish people? Have you been looking for “something” that speaks to your spirit but couldn’t figure out what it was? Or have you found your life partner and want to share in their religion? No matter the reason, our clergy is ready to explore with you a path toward living a Jewish.
It's a Personal Process
Our conversion program is individually tailored to each candidate’s personal situation and needs. In general, our clergy will meet privately with a student for a period of time, during which we ask students to live like a Jew to the best of their ability. Our Greater Hartford Conservative rabbis co-sponsor and co-teach the Institute for Basic Judaism, a course that meets weekly from September/October thru March/April (depending on when the Jewish holidays are). This is a wonderful way to learn with others who are walking a similar path. Participation is not required, but is strongly suggested, for both candidate and, where possible, the candidate’s Jewish partner.
Conversion according to the laws of the Conservative movement includes circumcision for males who are not yet circumcised, or hatafat dam brit, a drawing of blood, for those who are. Individuals immerse in our mikveh, our ritual bath, separately in front of a same-gendered guide.
During and/or following conversion, we are happy to set you up with a mentor, someone who converted years before, who can show you the ropes and help troubleshoot your new holidays and rituals.
Jews-by-Choice are welcomed to participate in all synagogue activities, services, and programs. We would be delighted to celebrate your conversion with an aliyah, a Torah honor. Please contact Rabbi Howard Sowalsky to schedule.
To begin studying with one of our rabbis, please contact Rabbi Rosen or Rabbi Zerin by calling our office at (860) 233-9696.
Fri, October 25 2024
23 Tishrei 5785
Upcoming Events
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Friday ,
OctOctober 25 , 2024Simchat Torah Family Program
Friday, Oct 25th 10:00a to 12:15p
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Sunday ,
NovNovember 3 , 2024Distinguished Service Award Banquet
Sunday, Nov 3rd 5:30p to 8:30p
The DSA Banquet will be held on Sunday, November 3, from 5:30pm - 8:30pm, honoring Tom Falik and Steve Rabb for their extraordinary service to the Men's Club, Beth El Temple, and the Greater Hartford Community. Please join us! -
Wednesday ,
NovNovember 6 , 2024A Day at the Museum with NAR-WLCJ
Wednesday, Nov 6th 10:30a to 12:00p
Springfield Museums Free First Wednesday Special Exhibit: Tiffany's Gardens in Glass. Women's Network members are invited to join their sisters from other NAR-WLCJ synagogues to carpool to Springfield and enjoy this special exhibit, as well as all for the museums, free of charge. The museums open at 10:30am, so we will depart West Hartford in time for opening. We will return after lunch. Click in to register! -
Wednesday ,
NovNovember 6 , 2024Studying Dirshuni with Rabbi Rachel Zerin
Wednesday, Nov 6th 6:00p to 7:15p
Join Rabbi Rachel Zerin and Women's Network as we explore both timely and timeless topics through the lens of "Dirshuni: Contemporary Women's Midrash," a book which weaves together ancient Jewish texts and contemporary women's voices. All are welcome, whether it is your first time or you are a regular. All you need is an interest in learning! Snacks will be provided. Note: Evening minyan begins at 5:30 pm (and please join us if you can!). Class will begin at approximately 6:00pm. -
Sunday ,
NovNovember 17 , 2024Keeper of the Flame Brunch
Sunday, Nov 17th 10:30a to 12:00p
The Keeper of the Flame Event is a Tribute and Celebration Reception to honor men who have provided outstanding service to their Men’s Clubs. Beth El’s honoree is Arthur Freedman. Click in for details on how to RSVP!