The New London Synagogue welcomes new converts and provides a programme leading to conversion by the European Masorti Bet Din (Jewish Court). Rabbi Gordon oversees the programme which is managed by Rabbi Elaina Rothman. Rabbi Gordon also sits on the Bet Din.

Jewish law, as spelled out in the Talmud and the codes, allows for conversion, setting a number of requirements to be met by the potential convert before being accepted. These requirements include a period of study, a level of familiarity with and practice of Jewish ritual obligations and a spiritual or theological committment. The actual process of conversion entails ritual immersion in a Mikvah (Ritual bath), Brit Milah (ritual circumcision) - in the case of men - and accepting the commandments (Mitzvot).

The heart of the conversion programme at New London Synagogue is the L'Hayim class. This class meets weekly and provides a thoughtful study programme specifically tailored to the needs of conversion candidates and (where there are Jewish partners) Jewish partners also. The course is taught by Angela Gluck who provides ongoing support outside the class room as well as during classes. We also provide opportunities for Hebrew study.

Those undergoing the conversion process are provided with encouragement and support whilst going through a major change in their lives.Conversion is, however, a major undertaking, not suitable for all. You will be required to attend New London Synagogue weekly for services as well as for classes. Also, if you have a partner, we require that that partner be Jewish and we expect their full in the programme alongside your own.

If this is something you wish to discuss further please contact me . In your e-mail please include a couple of sentences about yourself and a couple of sentences about your interest in Judaism. Please also let me have a phone number and sense of the sorts of times when I could reach you for a phone conversation.

Rabbi Jeremy Gordon