How to Convert to Conservative Judaism

Conservative rabbis may not agree to convert one spouse and not the other.

Conservative Judaism is an American invention, falling between Reform and Orthodox Judaism in level of observance. In the 1990s, Conservative Judaism began to find its footing in Israel -- mostly among American transplants -- with a center on a major intersection in central Jerusalem. Conservative services employ a greater level of Hebrew than Reform services but the movement takes far more conservative positions on social issues. Conversion to Conservative Judaism requires a rabbi as a mentor and a long process of learning.

Things You'll Need

• Rabbi & synagogue
• Study materials
• Dedication

Instructions

1. Find a Conservative synagogue that you would like to join during and after your conversion. Talk to local Jews and visit Conservative synagogues to find a good fit. Synagogues are free and open to anyone who wants to enter.

2. Approach the rabbi at the synagogue with your interest in conversion. The rabbi may turn you away up to three times before he accepts you into the conversion process. Don't be discouraged; this is not an insult, it is an effort to make sure that you are confident in your decision.

3. Set a meeting with the rabbi. Be prepared to answer questions about your interest in Judaism and your desire to convert. These are also attempts to determine your conviction. Rabbis are very careful not to pressure potential converts into a process that they are not truly ready for.

4. Dress appropriately for this meeting. Conservative Jews are generally not fussy about dress codes, but modest dress shows respect for the place. Pants or a decent-length skirt are appropriate, as are shirts with short or long sleeves. Dresses, as long as they are not too short, are also appropriate. Necklines should not be too low. These rules do not just apply to you; they are common-sense dress codes for Conservative synagogue services.

5. Spend a year or more studying Jewish religion and rituals. This is not only for ease of transition into Jewish life, but also provides time for the potential convert to decide if this process is right for her. The processes involved within this time period will depend on the specific rabbi.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are married, a Conservative rabbi may not agree to convert you and not your spouse. If you already have children, the rabbi may insist that they convert as well. Also, after the formal conversion, you may have to go before a panel of rabbis and answer questions before the conversion becomes official.

• Do not let anyone treat you like a "convert." Though Jews are educated that converts are as Jewish as any person born a Jew, such discrimination still exists. Also, know that a Conservative conversion will not be enough for acceptance as a Jew in Israel.

References

• Becoming Jewish: Conversion