Question: How to convert to Reform Judaism in Romania.
Dear Rabbi,
Shalom. My name is Segarceanu Loredana Nicoleta. I am 24 years old and I live in Romania. I believe in the Jewish religion (shema israel) and I have been keeping Jewish traditions for 6 years. I really want to do giur. I am a religious person and want to be a safta Yehudia. My question is how can I covert to reform Judaism?
Answer: Dear Segarceanu Lordedana Nicoleta
Thank you for your letter and your question. You ask about the possibility of converting to Reform Judaism where you live in Romania.
The international movement that includes North American Reform Judaism is led by the World Union for Progressive Judaism. The World Union is an umbrella for progressive Jewish movements in countries across the globe. WUPJ members represent a wide range of liberal approaches to Judaism, but all are committed to "authentic manifestations of Jewish creativity, ancient and modern, particularly those that stress inwardness and desire to learn what God expects from us: justice and equality, democracy and peace, personal fulfillment and collective obligations."
Unfortunately, there are no WUPJ affiliated movements or synagogues in Romania. It is possible that you may find a progressive rabbi in Europe to guide you in the conversion process through the WUPJ. Check their website. You may also wish to look at Masorti (Conservative) congregations.
Of course, there is no such thing as "converting to Reform Judaism." The Jewish people are one people, irrespective of the movements with which they identify. All true converts to Judaism should be regarded as Jews, with no modifier necessary.
Conversion to Judaism through a Reform, liberal or progressive rabbi is a different experience than it is through orthodoxy. Most orthodox rabbis require converts to adhere to a narrowly defined version of Jewish law and may not offer much personal spiritual guidance through the process. However, any Jew, including those who convert, may choose to adopt a liberal approach to Judaism -- one that is inclusive, historical, creative and devoted to the themes of equality and justice.
I wish you the best in your journey.
Sincerely,
Rabbi Jeffrey W. Goldwasser
