Few orthodox institutions allow conversion candidates to become students. However, one organization in New York City has a history of being conversion-friendly: the Drisha Institute for Jewish Education. It is not explicitly an orthodox institution, so admission is open to Jews and conversion candidates from any background. However, the teaching is “traditional” and in accordance […]

Lately, I haven’t blogged as much as I would like, for many reasons. However, I do have time that I want to use to help others. So I’m setting up shop as a tutor. I’m not the most knowledgable person you might find, but I know my limits and I’m patient. I’m not afraid to

My dirty secret is out: I hate dressing up in a costume on Purim. To be fair, I don’t care for dressing up at any time, whether that’s Halloween, a party, or ComiCon. I can’t explain it, but I know I can’t be the only one. However, most people love dressing up for Purim, and

(Just kidding, you’ll probably still embarass yourself! Remind yourself: builds character!) It’s that time of year again…when you try to avoid saying Ahashverosh despite all the talk about Purim. I often mispronounce Jewish words, and I’m generally okay with that, but the name Ahashverosh is so long that my failure is much harder to ignore.

I’m normally all doom and gloom (or so I’m perceived), but do you realize how amazing you are? Really. You. Well… Convert You and Conversion Candidate You. I’m sure the rest of you are amazing too, but we’ll discuss it some other time. Converts are such a great strength to our community, and it should

We’ve discussed briefly before how a rabbi, scary though he may seem, is a normal person with dreams, faults, anxieties, and other responsibilities. His job responsibilities may be less than clear: What is the Proper Role of a Congregational Rabbi? But what is he NOT? He’s not your friend, sadly. He might become your friend

I have been asked to share an upcoming trip to Israel that is specifically for converts and conversion candidates. I can’t vouch for the trip or the people involved because I don’t know them (but I received nothing for posting this opportunity). The idea is great, and many conversion candidates have mentioned wanting an opportunity

Rusty Brick, the foremost developer of Jewish apps (they’re the first company I remember on the market!), is having a sale on its apps for your tablets and phones. These Android and iOS apps are half off the normal price until Tuesday night, according to an email I received last night from their mailing list.

This Tuesday, I’m giving my very first lecture: Light in the Darkness: Emotional Abuse in the Conversion Process. I need your help: what do you wish people knew about the conversion process, specifically the potential for emotional abuse? My own conversion process is linked to Chanukah because I got “the call” eruv Shabbat Chanukah (late

Do you particularly enjoy a certain book of the Tanach? Today, I heard the book of Daniel described as a “really good read.” Usually, when I hear orthodox Jews discuss a “favorite” book of Tanach, it’s always Psalms/Tehillim. But does another book speak to you personally? Is there a book you simply enjoy reading? Have