Conversion to Judaism with Sukkat Shalom
- A brief introduction
Conversion to Judaism is a meaningful, gradual, and deeply personal journey. At Sukkat Shalom we welcome those who feel a genuine calling to join the Jewish people. At the same time, we emphasize that becoming Jewish requires commitment, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace not only Jewish religious practice but also Jewish culture, history, identity, and community life.
Every person’s background is unique. The process may take anywhere from one and a half to several years. Some candidates come with a background in Jewish life and thought, and others know little. Some progress faster, others more slowly. What matters is sincerity, readiness, and steady engagement. Only our rabbi can determine individual expectations, timelines, and whether conversion through us is appropriate.
Below is an overview of how the journey with Sukkat Shalom typically unfolds.
Understanding Jewish Identity and Conversion
Traditional halacha considers a person Jewish if they are born to a Jewish mother or convert through a recognized rabbinic process. Progressive Judaism, including Sukkat Shalom, may accept patrilineal descent under certain conditions, but standards differ among Jewish movements and congregations worldwide.
Because of these variations, it is essential to understand that:
-
Jewish identity (religiously) and membership rules can differ between communities.
-
A conversion recognized at Sukkat Shalom may not automatically be accepted by all synagogues in Sweden, abroad, or by the State of Israel.
Prospective converts must be well-informed about these differences before beginning the process.
What Conversion Involves
Judaism does not proselytize. Rabbis (over two millennia and up to today) encourage would-be converts to reflect carefully, because becoming Jewish is not simply adopting a belief system—it is entering into a people, a shared destiny, and a lifelong way of living.
A genuine conversion requires:
-
Learning Jewish history, values, religious practice, and culture
-
Experiencing Jewish life within a community
-
Gradually adopting mitzvot (sacred obligations), including Shabbat observance and Jewish dietary practices
-
Emotional and practical preparation, including discussions with family
-
A final halachic process involving a rabbinic court (Bet Din) and immersion in the mikveh
-
For men, brit milah (circumcision) or haftarat dam brit (symbolic circumcision) if already circumcised
Once completed, a conversion is irrevocable: a person who becomes Jewish remains Jewish for life.
The Sukkat Shalom Approach
Sukkat Shalom is part of the World Union for Progressive Judaism but is not tied to any single Reform or Liberal movement. We follow a progressive philosophy grounded in study, community participation, and personal transformation.
The conversion process typically takes 18–24 months, though it may be longer depending on prior knowledge, level of engagement, language skills, and personal circumstances.
Key Principles of Our Process
-
Judaism is learned in community, not in isolation.
-
Study is essential, but so is hands-on participation.
-
Every path is individual; progress is not linear.
Only our rabbi can answer specific questions regarding eligibility and expectations.
First Steps Toward Conversion with Sukkat Shalom
Become Part of Jewish Community Life
A sincere conversion requires active, ongoing participation. You are expected to:
-
Attend Sukkat Shalom’s services, educational events, and cultural activities
-
Join adult education sessions and occasional Torah Study
-
Subscribe to our mailing list and follow security procedures for synagogue attendance
-
Supplement your experience by visiting Stora Synagogan or other communities to gain a broader understanding of Jewish life in Stockholm and abroad.
Progressive Jewish communities abroad - especially in Denmark and the UK - also provide online services and courses that can deepen your learning.
Begin Formal Study
Everyone studying toward conversion with Sukkat Shalom must participate in our monthly courses for adults and torah study, open to both prospective and already-Jewish participants.
You should also:
-
Take courses through Paideia Folkhögskola
-
Read widely about Judaism, Jewish history, and Jewish philosophy
-
Attend lectures, museum programs, and cultural events connected to Jewish life
-
Learn to read Hebrew and become familiar with the siddur (prayer book)
Celebrate Shabbat and experience all Jewish holidays for at least one full year.
Working with the Rabbi
After you have shown consistent participation and learning, you may begin formal study with the sponsoring rabbi. The rabbi will:
-
Assess your background and readiness
-
Guide you through increasingly deeper observance of Jewish practice
-
Help you prepare for the Bet Din and mikveh
-
Discuss the personal and family implications of conversion
At times, the rabbi may direct you to another rabbi or advise that the timing is not yet right for formal conversion. This is normal; conversion must be undertaken thoughtfully and responsibly.
The Final Steps
Once both you and the rabbi agree that you are ready, you will meet with a Bet Din - a panel of three rabbis who evaluate your sincerity, knowledge, and commitment.
If approved, you will:
-
Undergo brit milah (if applicable)
-
Immerse in the mikveh, taking on a Hebrew name
Be welcomed fully into the Jewish people
A Journey of Commitment and Growth
Conversion is not a checklist—it's an evolution, not a revolution. It demands time, dedication, patience, openness, and genuine desire. The process transforms not only your religious identity but often your relationships, routines, and worldview.
For those who complete it, the journey is profoundly meaningful.
Questions?
General information can be found on our website, but only our rabbi can answer individual questions regarding conversion, expectations, and personal circumstances.
