Judaism is an experiential religion. When you convert with Park Avenue Synagogue, we bring Judaism to life in the classroom, during sanctuary prayer services, and through cohort cultural experiences.

You will become part of a spiritually vibrant, inspiring, and intellectually engaging community. Your teachers, who are members of our clergy, will guide you on your spiritual journey.

The Steps to Conversion

  •  Complete the 18-week Pathways course
  • Celebrate a calendar year of holidays 

  • Explore a deepening connection to Judaism through synagogue and at-home rituals  

  •  Attend morning minyan, holiday and Shabbat services, including three to four targeted Learner’s Services.  

  •  Experience Jewish culture by attending movies, reading books, and going to restaurants, art exhibits, and plays that embrace Jewish culture. Suggested list provided with registration. 

  •  Engage in a minimum of four private one-on-one meetings with a designated clergy member for guidance and mentorship. 

  • Meet with a beit din (rabbinic court). This panel of three rabbis will ask you questions such as, “If I came to your house, how would I know that you are Jewish?” Your sponsoring rabbi will decide when you are ready. 

  • Get immersed in the mikvah (ritual pool). This typically occurs after the beit din and it is used to mark life’s transitions like marriage, childbirth, and conversion.  

  •  Study with a rabbi as long as is needed to attain confidence with a basic “literacy” of Judaism.

FAQ About Conversion