AboutRabbi Barry Dov Lerner Expertise Write to me with questions about Jewish customs and law, history,
philosophy and tradition for answers from a Conservative perspective or conversion. I am a graduate of The Jewish Theological Seminary and a member of the Conservative Rabbinical Assembly. Having served in congregational pulpits since 1970, I now am President of the Foundation For Family Education, Inc. a non-profit educational endeavor. I established it to create new formats of hands-on programs and provide free educational downloads at www.jewishfreeware.org. In addition to general informational questions I welcome your questions about programs for social action, outreach to dual-faith families, inter-faith clergy projects, healing services, education for conversion, adult education for the congregation and the community. If you have questions about Informal and Formal Education I am ready to share my extensive experience with Youth Activities, Camping and Religious School/Hebrew High School on a congregational, community and national/international level.
Experience I have served on the National Youth Commission for more than 25 years and serve on the Boards of the Conservative Zionist movement MERCAZ and the World Council of Synagogues. I have always dual-families and taught candidates for conversion with a great sense of fulfillment. I am very proud of 25 years on the Jewish camping staff of Camps Ramah. My greatest source of pride is my family! Ask me about them, please!:-)
Question Shalom Rabbi! I am looking for help. I am converting into Conservative Judaism, and have only one class in my studies to complete, which will take place next week. It seems like my whole life has been leading up to conversion, but I am missing only one thing: my new Hebrew name. My fiancee and I are both at a loss, as I have no desire to assume another identity by adopting a more common name like the many Saras and Miriams and Ruths out there. I will be me, only better, and I want my name to reflect that. I do plan to ask my rabbi for his input, as well as my future in-laws', but wanted another opinion.
I like my given name of Jessica, and the meanings of "wealthy" (in blessings, I believe), or "G-d beholds". I have found only one source that refers to a legitimate Hebrew version of my name, here: http://www.babynamespedia.com/meaning/Yessica.
My question is: Is "Yessica" really an acceptable Hebrew name for me, since I like and want to keep my name? Or should I be looking for something else?
Answer Dear Jessica,
Thanks for writing and congratulations on your forthcoming celebration.
It would be inappropriate for me to interfere with our Rabbi and I would urge you to follow the lead and advice of your Rabbi. Don't hesitate to share your concerns with your Rabbi, and I am sure you will have a satisfactory conclusion.
Above all, don't let this adversely affect your joy. Jesse was after all also the father of King David. I am sure your Rabbi will help you to find a mutually satisfying solution.
