Conversion and Mixed Faith
FRS welcomes everyone and endeavours to make each person feel comfortable in the community. Our “Friends” membership option is particularly for non-Jews who want to make a commitment to their partner or family’s Jewish lives without converting.
We also offer our Gateway to Judaism course: an introduction to Judaism, taught primarily by FRS clergy with some guest experts.
Who is it for?
Gateway can serve as the formal learning required for conversion via Reform Judaism’s Beit Din, so if you’re thinking about conversion, this is for you.
The course doesn’t have to end in conversion, though: you’re welcome to join if you just want to explore the possibility of conversion (and make a decision later), or if you were born Jewish but feel you still need a good grounding in what it means to live a Jewish life.
For anyone in an interfaith relationship considering a Jewish blessing when you get married, the Gateway course fulfils the requirement for the non-Jewish partner to learn about Judaism before we can offer the blessing.
When is it?
The class meets on Tuesday evenings, when there’s also the opportunity to learn Hebrew before the Jewish studies part begins. We meet in person, to maximise our opportunities for great discussion.
Usual entry points to start the class are in September and in January.
How long does it take?
Gateway is a rolling year-long course, though some people choose to stay longer to catch up on any classes they missed over the initial year.
The process of conversion may take around two years, as gaining basic Jewish knowledge, learning Hebrew, and getting involved with our community are all important parts of the process (learn more here, from the Movement for Reform Judaism’s Beit Din). It begins with some time attending services and gaining familiarity with Judaism and FRS before starting Gateway; there may be around six months between finishing a cycle of Gateway classes and an appointment with the Beit Din (the formal interview that concludes the process).
What does it cost?
There is an annual charge for the Gateway course, which in 2024 is £150 (there is an additional charge of £150 if you wish to join the Hebrew class too).
All participants need to be Members of FRS (if you’re already Jewish) or Friends of FRS (if you’re not Jewish).
If Gateway is part of your conversion journey, there is a cost for the Beit Din and mikveh at the end of the process.
Sounds great! How do I learn more?
Please contact Rabbi Eleanor Davis, who will be delighted to talk about how Gateway could be part of the next steps on your journey with Judaism.
