Expert: Rabbi Barry Dov Lerner - 6/9/2011

Question
Shalom, Rabbi Lerner !

I am 18 years old, and have recently discovered that Judaism is the right path for me. I still live with my parents, but they are accepting of my decision. I figured out which branch would be best suited for me, and I chose the Conservative branch. I have recently been looking at some synagogues in my area, and have found a Conservative synagogue. My only issue is, how do go about threw conversion ? Do I contact the rabbi and arrange a meeting ? Would my age cause any issues on the proccess ? I expect to be dissuaded a few times, so I will understand that.

Answer
Dear Taylor,

Please forgive me delay in answering because I truly know how important this question is to you.

The best advice I can give you is to call and arrange a meeting. If you wish to contact me - bdlerner1@gmail.com directly for privacy - please feel free to do so. The most important element in education for conversion and then conversion is a special relationship between teacher and student, just as it is in general education and instruction.

If you wish to tell me where you live I may know the Conservative Rabbi of whom you speak. I may know of other Rabbis in the area.

Just remember, please, that not every Rabbi in a Conservative congregation is Conservative by training, ordination and . Not every Conservative congregation is indeed affiliated with the Conservative movement and the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. And, one need not be Conservative to be a warm and welcoming Rabbi and congregation.

If for any reason you are not welcomed, please don't hesitate to write and I'll do whatever I can to help you.

Best wishes in your religious quest.

Rabbi Dov