Conversion

We welcome your interest in becoming a part of the Jewish people or in desiring to better understand the eternal covenant that exists between the Jewish people and God. In our day and age, there are many reasons a person might wish to become a Jew by Choice. It is not a decision that we take lightly, and we hold the utmost respect for those who wish to seriously pursue this objective.

Yearly Basic Judaism Class

Temple Beth Shalom offers a course in Basic Judaism intended to begin the process of serious study for adults who may be interested in converting to Judaism. Before beginning the course, each participant must meet with the Rabbi and receive written permission. This course meets weekly for about six months.

Among the topics covered in the Basic Judaism class are:

• Hebrew reading
• Jewish life-cycle events and celebrations
• calendar cycle of festivals and Holy Days
• Shabbat
• an overview of Jewish history
• Jewish theology and beliefs
• keeping kosher
• the meaning of Israel
• basic prayers and the prayer book

During the course and after it ends, participants are strongly encouraged to join the congregation regularly for worship, study, and celebration. Becoming comfortable as a part of the Temple Beth Shalom community is an important part of this program.

Contact us by email at temple@spokanetbs.org or by calling the Temple office at 509-747-3304 for more information, to make an appointment with our Rabbi, and to find out when the next Basic Judaism class begins.

The Process of Conversion

The process of converting to Judaism involves different elements and preparatory steps depending on whether the person converting is a baby, a child, or an adult man or woman. Our Rabbi is happy to discuss the conversion rituals with anyone who wishes to learn more about the process.

Our community has many active members and leaders who have chosen Judaism along their life paths. Let us welcome you!