Every year, many women choose to convert to Judaism. They usually take an
Introduction to Judaism class, but the classes don't always cover the practical
aspects of living a Jewish life.
That's why the Jewish Outreach
Institute has developed the Empowering Ruth program, a course that offers those
who have recently converted to Judaism hands-on learning in Jewish living, home
observance, new rituals, life-cycle events and more.
The program piloted
in New York City and is set to premier in Broward County at
Temple Beth Emet in Cooper City this month.
Liz Marcovitz, the
institute's program officer and Empowering Ruth national coordinator, said the
program gives converts practical advice on living a Jewish life.
"The
program has 14 sessions and while it is educational in nature, it is much more
than book learning," Marcovitz said. "An Introduction to Judaism course teaches
converts to light candles on Shabbat, while Empowering Ruth teaches them how to
actually prepare your home for Shabbat, how to rest on the Sabbath and advice on
items such as where to buy candle holders for your Shabbat
candles."
"This is a great way to embrace recent converts to Judaism in a
learning community," said Cantor Jan Sherr of Temple Beth Emet, facilitator of
the program.
The program will meet at Temple Beth Emet bi-weekly for
seven to eight months.
The curriculum, which was funded by the Jim Joseph
Foundation, provides instruction for several optional field trips and guest
speakers relevant to the session topics.
"It's a much-needed program, and
our goal is to offer it throughout the nation and in Canada," Marcovitz said.
This fall it will be offered in Austin, Texas, and Montreal.
Katherine
Campbell, 33, of Pembroke Pines, converted to Judaism a year ago and will be
taking the class.
"It's a learning process," Campbell said. "I want to
learn more about Judaism and also about myself and how I fit into the
religion."
For more information, contact Marcovitz at 212- 760-1440 or
LMarcovitz@ joi.org, or Zohar Casden at Temple Beth Emet at 954-680-1882 or
zcasden@templebethemet. org.
