Welcoming those who have “adopted” Judaism is a highlight for any rabbi who has studied with conversion candidates. I’m so pleased that we can formally welcome Leeanne Shepherd and Catherine Rogers this Shabbat evening, completing the process following their “exam” at each woman’s Bet Din a few weeks ago. I am pleased to say that both Catherine and Leeanne passed with flying colors!

Both of these women have had a history with our congregation and other Jewish communities before making the decision to pursue formal conversion. For this rabbi it’s a new phenomenon inasmuch as most Jews-by-Choice may have read books about our faith and our people but because they weren’t yet Jews chose not to connect with a congregation; their first connection was when they called me and inquired about the process. Leeanne and Catherine are well-known to you; their introduction to Judaism was definitely more in line with our Peoplehood than with our faith though surely the two are intertwined.

They will also be our speakers sharing their journeys. It will be most interesting for you to hear what those who began on the outside find so appealing about Judaism, enough to make them want to enter our Big Tent. Considering there are those who find being Jewish to be a burden, or take their status for granted, or choose not to identify at all with their religion of birth (or, in some instances, of choice), it can be eye-opening to hear what Catherine and Leeanne have to say.

We hope you will celebrate with them either via livestream or live…the sanctuary has opened its doors provided those who enter follow the Covid-related limitations. Leeanne and Catherine worked hard to reach this day; they have been with Beth El during thick and thin so how nice it would be for you to be with them on their special day.