Choosing Judaism at Congregation Emanu-El entails a period of spiritual, textual, and practical learning. The prospective convert studies about Judaism, participates in the life of the synagogue, and develops and deepens his or her personal commitment and relationship with God, Torah, and the Jewish people.

Preparation for conversion at Congregation Emanu-El includes the following activities:

THE COURSE - The prospective convert usually begins with "THE COURSE" taught by senior faculty of Temple Emanu-El. THE COURSE is a pathway for the adult learner who wishes to discover Jewish knowledge. Each session will have two parts: an initial presentation on a specific topic followed by discussion groups.

The Guide Rabbi - Each student will have a guide rabbi from our rabbinic faculty. The guide rabbi will periodically have individual meetings with the prospective candidate.

Jewish Living - The prospective convert begins to "view the world through Jewish eyes" through the celebration of Sabbath and holidays, observance of mitzvoth and participation in the Jewish community. Although not required, an ability to read Hebrew enhances participation in the synagogue and in Jewish ritual. The guide rabbi can provide suggestions on how to acquire a basic reading knowledge of Hebrew.

The Conversion Group - This group creates an environment of guidance and support as individuals participate in various Jewish activities. Individuals will write a letter before each group meeting, reflecting on their Jewish experience during the preceding month. They will also read selections from books chosen in consultation with the guide rabbi.

When the guide rabbi and the candidate agree that the individual is prepared for conversion, the Rabbi will schedule an appointment for the Beit Din (rabbinic court), mikvah (ritual immersion) and conversion ceremony. Prospective male converts can discuss the issue of circumcision with their guide rabbi.

Guidelines for conversion:

• Synagogue participation
• Completion of two of three trimesters of "The Course" and intention to finish
• Full participation in the conversion group
• A personal essay describing the journey toward conversion
• Completion of the ritual requirements for conversion (Beit din, mikvah and conversion ceremony)

Becoming an adult Bar or Bat Mitzvah, Anshei Mitzvah, is encouraged for all those who have chosen Judaism as their life path.

THE COURSE
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FALL 2008 SPIRITUAL DIRECTION GROUPS

"THE MIKVEH AND BEYOND" will:

• Create spiritual community for individuals who are exploring Judaism, considering conversion, or who have chosen Judaism, in a small group setting.
• Provide individuals with support in their exploration and transition to Judaism through spiritual direction.
• Support individuals in their journey toward Jewish life.
• Create a bridge to deepening onešs connection to Judaism, and developing a spiritual practice.
• Provide the content for meditation and reflection through music and traditional and contemporary Jewish spiritual sources.

"THE MIKVEH AND BEYOND ALEPH" INTRODUCTORY SERIES

This group is an introduction to the core principles of Jewish Spiritual practice.

Required: Two trimesters of The Course or clergy approval.

This core series includes four ninety-minute sessions on Wednesday evenings with an introductory session on November 12. Dates are: Wednesday December 3, 17, January 7, 28. 

Register for the entire series on line, or attend the introductory session on Nov 12 and register. Space is limited to eight people for the series.

Text: Six Jewish Spiritual Paths: A Rationalist Looks at Spirituality by Rabbi Rifat Sonsino

Cost: $60.00 members; $75 friends of members

Location: Rinder Chapel

Time: 7:00 ­ 8:30 pm

Facilitator: Ellen Benjamin, MA, Spiritual Director at eebenj@aol.com

"THE MIKVEH AND BEYOND BET" CONTINUING SERIES

This group is a continuing group intended for those individuals who have completed their conversion requirements, are living a Jewish life, or have scheduled a mikveh date with their guide Rabbi.

The content for this six session series is experience in integrating various spiritual practices into daily life. The teachings are taken from multiple Jewish spiritual sources, and coincide with the Jewish calendar and holidays.

Dates: Mondays, October 27, November 17, December 15, January 12, February 16, March 16

Cost: $60.00 members; $75.00 friends of members.

Time: 7:00 ­ 8:30pm

Space is limited based on availability. Held off site at a San Francisco location.

Registration required after a preliminary interview with the facilitator.

Facilitator: Ellen Benjamin, MA, Spiritual Director at eebenj@aol.com