Conversion to Judaism is a significant act of personal religious commitment that requires an extended period of study.  Beit Midrash Eitz Chaim warmly and enthusiastically welcomes those of you who choose to make this life-changing, life-long decision.  The decision to take on a new religious identity is one of the most profound steps one can take. Our rabbis are, therefore, available to counsel and teach those of you who wish to begin or continue this sacred journey. 

All students wishing to convert through Beit Midrash Eitz Chaim are required to participate in both the Oregon Board of Rabbis’ Introduction to Judaism class, sponsored and taught by members of the Oregon Board of Rabbis, (Contact:  Sheri Cordova, 503-639-0853) as well as the Beit Midrash Eitz Chaim Aleph-Bet of Judaism Course:  A Liberal Perspective—Parts I and II. 

In addition, students will be required to regularly attend Torah Study with Rabbi Rosen and to regularly attend Shabbat, Festival and Holy Day services at a synagogue in the greater Portland area.  A full year of participation of Jewish life and one-on-one study with one of our rabbis are required.  Community participation, in accordance with your own interests and skills, is a necessary part of this study. The process of choosing Judaism is highly personal and not bound by a time line, but ultimately all students come before a rabbinic bet din, immerse in the mikvah and, when appropriate, undergo hatafat dam brit, symbolic ritual circumcision.

If you are interested in conversion, please contact Rabbi Kim L. Rosen at 50.417.8600 or via email at info@eitzchaimpdx.org to continue your journey into Judaism.