The Program
Our conversion program gives people interested in converting to Judaism a process where they can work toward their conversion under the sponsorship of a Conservative Rabbi.
Requirements for Conversion
All students participating in the conversion program are required to:
- Have regular meetings with their sponsoring Rabbi
- Take “Introduction to Judaism” classes on Wednesday evenings
- Attend synagogue services as requested by their Rabbi
Components of the Conversion Program
As part of their learning, students will:
- Visit the Mikvah of the Conservative Movement (photo at right) and hear a presentation from the mikvah’s administrator
- Attend Rabbi question and answer sessions
- Hear a presentation from a Jewish funeral director regarding death and mourning practices
- Visit Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies
- Listen to and ask questions of prior graduates of the program
Students will also attend a three-session class entitled “Understanding the Shabbat Morning Service” taught by Bnai Tikvah Congregation Ritual Director, Rachel Rosenberg.
Interested students may also register for two semesters of beginning Hebrew taught on Tuesday or Thursday evenings at Beth Hillel Congregation Bnai Emunah in Wilmette, where the Introduction to Judaism classes are held.
Involvement of Jewish Partners
Students who have partners or significant others who were born Jewish will be required to attend with those individuals. Our students have told us that when two people in a committed relationship go through the conversion process together, the experience brings them closer together, creates shared religious goals, and provides a knowledgeable and spiritual starting point for a Jewish life together.
Nancy Labbie, the Institute’s instructor, is a Jew By Choice who understands and is able to identify with the concerns and experiences of her students.
Contact Us Today
To contact Nancy Labbie or a sponsoring Rabbi, please contact the United Synagogue Office below:
- Phone: 847-714-9130
- E-mail: midwest@uscj.org
Students may register and begin classes at any time from September to June.
Partner Program
Looking for a program in the Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago?
Anshe Emet Synagogue offers a comprehensive program for people who are considering conversion to Judaism.
