Question: How can we celebrate our daughter-in-law's conversion to Judaism?
Dear Rabbi,
My daughter-in-law is being converted to Judaism and is giving her speech before the congregation at a Friday night Ruach service. Our family wants to celebrate the conversion. Is it appropriate to host a Shabbat dinner at synagogue after the service as a way to welcome her into the community?
Thank you for response. Phyllis
Answer: Dear Phyllis,
Mazal Tov on your daughter-in-law's conversion. Any conversion undertaken for the sole purpose of accepting God, Torah, and the mitzvot is truly a special event and worthy of a celebration.
Indeed, the Talmud (Shabbat 118b) teaches us that we should hold a party at the conclusion of every intensive period of study, and by extension, at the completion of lengthy and difficult mitzvot.
Enjoy this most worthy and merited celebration!
Rabbi Ari Enkin
Ramat Beit Shemesh, Israel
