Convert to Judaism Online with Sim Shalom
New York, NY (PRWEB) November 22, 2013 -- Last month, Online Jewish Conversion became a reality at Sim Shalom.
Eight core units of study have been developed to be taken online. "We use a LMS- Learning Management System- the same style of learning that is prevalent among Colleges and Universities," says Rabbi Steven Blane founder and Rabbi of the Sim Shalom Community and proponent of Jewish Universalism (a style of Judaism that welcomes all people to fully participate in all Jewish Rituals).
The entire course can be completed in as little as six months and has been developed with convenience in mind. Students pay for one unit of study at a time and complete each unit at their own pace. Travel for any reason is not required.
The topics covered range from: An Introduction to Torah and God through Jewish Traditions and Symbols, Lifecycle Events, Shabbat, Festivals and High Holidays. Along with studying these units students are required to attend synagogue services with different denominational congregations and Sim Shalom’s online services. Rabbi Blane believes it is important for students to get a feel for different styles of tradition and Judaism.
During their study, students meet online with Rabbis and staff members to join in group discussion and exploration of the topics as well as to ask questions and have conversations about life after conversion.
"There are significant issues that must be addressed for those who are converting and their families. We are here to be honest, supportive and gentle in our online conversations and interactions,” commented Rabbi Blane.
At the conclusion of study of the eight modules and after completion of all assignments and readings, students visit a local Mikvah (Ritual Bath). An Online Bet Din is then convened with rabbis joining in from different locations around the country to interview and welcome the men and women into the Jewish Faith.
"It is a natural extension for Sim Shalom, the online Synagogue, to offer Online Jewish Conversion," says Rabbi Blane. "Our online Services Monday through Friday and High Holiday Services now reach hundreds of people every week. Sim Shalom is a vibrant and thriving community and people love our all-inclusive, non judgemental and apolitical style of Judaism. We receive requests to convert every week and its a great honor to now be able to respond to these requests," remarked Rabbi Blane.
About Sim Shalom:
Sim Shalom is a non-profit 501(C)(3) tax-exempt organization. Sim Shalom’s mission is to nurture a Jewish connection through innovative services, creative education and dynamic outreach to the local and global community. They accomplish this through offering online interactive services. Their services are participatory and accessible for everyone.
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Rabbi Steven Blane, Sim Shalom, http://www.SimShalom.com, +1 (201) 560-2936, [email protected]
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