Ari and Lauren Douglas recently celebrated their wedding, embodying many traditions of a typical Jewish ceremony. They stood under a chuppah while blessings were recited by a cantor, and they danced in circles around each other, symbolizing the strength of their marriage.
What might not be instantly clear is that both Ari and Lauren are converts to Judaism, and they are part of a noticeable rise in conversions over the last two years. In the wake of the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks, various synagogues across Portland and other regions are reporting an increase in individuals embarking on the journey to convert.
Ari, a former pastor, first converted to Judaism in high school but temporarily left the faith. Lauren completed her conversion process mere weeks before their wedding, and throughout this journey, they took courses together and frequently discussed their faith.
“Having someone be able to go on that journey with you sparked a deeper level in our relationship and in our faith,” said Lauren Douglas. “Having that community, even if it’s just the two of us, is really important.”
The traditional process of converting to Judaism can often take several years, filled with significant study and self-reflection. Judaism typically does not promote proselytizing, and it is customary in some denominations for a rabbi to initially deny a prospective convert three times before allowing further participation in the conversion process.
In Oregon, prospective converts must participate in an 18-week “Intro to Judaism” course organized by the Oregon Board of Rabbis. After completing the courses and engaging in deep discussions with their chosen rabbi, converts are required to meet with a beit din, a panel of three Jewish leaders who assess the sincerity of the candidate’s desire to convert. Upon approval, the final step involves immersion in a mikvah, a ritual bath used for various Jewish ceremonies.
The exact number of conversions over the past two years remains unclear, as many synagogues do not track conversion statistics, and once individuals complete the process, it is customary not to mention their status as converts. National organizations such as the Union for Reform Judaism also lack comprehensive data on this trend.
However, Jewish leaders in Portland have observed a significant increase in interest towards conversion. Rabbi Rachel Joseph of Congregation Beth Israel noted a jump from several converts a year to 30 this past year alone.
“Before two years ago, we consistently had individuals expressing a desire to join, but the past two years have shown a remarkable uptick, which seems counterintuitive,” Rabbi Joseph observed.
This surge seems paradoxical, particularly as antisemitic incidents have also risen sharply. Reports of violence, including a recent firebombing during a pro-Israeli protest in Boulder, Colorado, raised questions about the Jewish community’s safety.
Despite this troubling backdrop, many individuals continue to explore conversion. Rabbis have mentioned that typical motivations for conversion often stem from a desire to reconnect with heritage or to find a faith community that is more affirming of LGBTQ+ identities.
“Many former adherents to other religions seek an environment that welcomes questioning, while Judaism is centered on the ability to challenge and discuss,” said Rabbi Eve Posen of Congregation Neveh Shalom in Portland.
Additionally, several congregants indicated that current events, particularly the violence surrounding the Oct. 7 attacks, have motivated them to commence their conversion journeys at this time. One such individual is Timothy James, who previously engaged with Judaism through family ties but had never formally converted. He noted that the events of October 7 prompted him to reevaluate his identity.
“I realized there was a division between Jewish people and non-Jewish people, and I understood which side I wanted to be on — the same side as my daughter and her mother,” James shared.
Timothy’s conversion journey coincided with his daughter’s preparation for her bat mitzvah, allowing them to practice prayers together.
“Our paths towards these important milestones are distinct, but there is a shared sense of purpose between us,” he reflected.
While the process of conversion often demands significant dedication and introspection, for many like Ari, Lauren, and Timothy, it represents a profound journey toward faith, identity, and connection.
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