Reply to Converting to Judaism

Forum Index » Religion

Reply to "Converting to Judaism"

Subject:

Emoticons





More smilies

Text Color: Font: Close Marks

[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]OP here.  Fortunately, I know enough about Judaism to understand that converts are completely accepted and welcomed into the community, so not worried about that.  Giving up Christmas and spousal agreement are definite issues to think about.  I don't accept Jesus as the messiah ( I guess if I did, I wouldn't consider converting), but do enjoy the festivities associated with Christmas.  However, I do believe that should I convert, the Jewish holidays could be just as festive and supplant my need for a Christmas tree.  Anyway I appreciate the input from you all.   [/quote]

You're absolutely right about converts being accepted and welcomed.  Please ignore the previous poster who suggested otherwise.

My advice is to follow your interest, and just take it one step at a time.  Why not find a Reform or Reconstructionist synagogue that's local to you, and try Friday night services a few times if they have them.  Friday is usually more relaxed and accessible than Saturday, and if you go a few times you may get a sense of whether it feels like a comfortable place, whatever that may mean to you.  If not, try another synagogue or maybe just talk with the Rabbi to see if there's more of a connection than you felt initially at services.

My sense is once you find a synagogue that feels comfortable, you can figure out from there how much engagement you want -- spiritually and/or in terms of community and identity.  There are so many different ways to practice religion, Judaism included.  I would treat it lightly and with curiosity ("Hmmm . . . I wonder how it will feel to try this?"  And more broadly, "I wonder where will this journey take me?").  Just go step-by-step and don't worry yet about the end result.  If your process leads you to formal conversion, great.  If not, that's fine, too.  There are many different ways to participate and find spiritual inspiration, a sense of community, and many other things that add deeper meaning to life.

By the way, there is no formal moment where you would be asked to renounce your Christmas tree.  :-)  No doubt some other Jews would disagree with me, but I truly believe there a way for you to find a home in Judaism AND retain your cultural/seasonal/secular enjoyment of Christmas.  (Though you're right, of course, that Jewish holidays can be very festive and meaningful, too!)

Finally, going back to step one, you might want to start a new thread asking people to recommend synagogues that are especially friendly to mixed marriage couples.  My guess is that's an indicator of a congregation that will be open and accessible to you.  Best to start with your particular area/town, and if there's not a good fit, branch out geographically from there.

Good luck![/quote]

Options

	Disable HTML in this message
	Disable BB Code in this message
	Disable smilies in this message

Review message

Search Recent Topics Hottest Topics