Friday, September 23, 2011

How will life change if I convert to a Reform Jew?

I am a teenager, and I have been raised Southern Baptist. But I am seriously considering (and I very probably will) converting to a Reform Jew. My question is; how will my lifestyle change? Will I be so different from other kids my age? How will I dress, talk, and behave? Ect. Can I get an overview of my teenage Jew lifestyle from here on out?How will life change if I convert to a Reform Jew?It sounds to me like you don't really know all that much about Judaism, if you have such sweeping questions about how your life will change on the outside (let alone the inside). What makes you think that Judaism is right for you, and if Judaism, why specifically Reform Judaism?



I can understand having some trepidation about things changing (that's perfectly normal), but if you are not willing to make major changes, or do not feel comfortable with changes that are outside your comfort level, maybe you should explore other paths within Christianity first. Have you looked into Unitarianism at all? It shares almost the same worldview and philosophy as Reform Judaism (doesn't believe Jesus was divine, believes that all people of all faiths go to the same place after death, believes in social justice, etc), but you don't have to give up Christmas or church, or the philosophy of Jesus, if those are important to you.



On the other hand, if you are looking to overhaul your way of life and want a faith system that encompasses all aspects of living, then you might want to explore all the different branches of Judaism before choosing Reform. Understanding exactly what it is you are planning to reject from Jewish law before you actually reject it, may make your decision easier.



Many Reform converts eventually end up converting again either Conservative or Orthodox, because they find that what they love most about the faith are practices and beliefs that Reform Jews by and large reject, and after putting so much work into conversion they want to be accepted by the entire Jewish community and not just by other Reform Jews. So it's best to know in advance what it is you are choosing.



By the way, it is not an easy process to convert to Judaism, even in the most liberal branches. Expect one to two full years of study once you are accepted into a conversion program - and don't expect to be accepted right off the bat. Since no reputable rabbi will accept you as a student until you turn 18 at the earliest, technically speaking you won't be a teenager anymore by the time you are officially Jewish.How will life change if I convert to a Reform Jew?A lot of that will be your decision. There will be a lot of learning, and no one can help a young convert under 18 if the parents do not consent.



Conversion is a long process, one that takes real dedication to go back even after being turned away. It will likely involve circumcision, and maybe following the laws of kashrut. I'd discuss it more with your rabbi.How will life change if I convert to a Reform Jew?Here's my question (BTW, Jews are known for answering a question with another question LOL) Why do you want to convert to Reform Judaism?



If it won't make a difference in you life, why bother.

If it will, you must have a really good reason and know exactly what you want to change.



Try this;

Finish this sentence %26quot;If I convert to Reform Judaism, I want to change____________%26quot;How will life change if I convert to a Reform Jew?I'm a Jewish Reform teen, I'm involved heavily with Temple, but I remain %26quot;normal%26quot; I guess. Religion doesn't totally dictate my life, but God still comes into mind when I'm faced with decisions. Honestly Reform Judaism is probably perfect for me.



Judaism has no effect on how I behave, dress or talk. The three of those will only change if you're an Othodox Jew, which is REALLY extreme. You'll be totally normal, it's nothing to be ashamed of, and the community that you'll be absorbed into is so loving and caring. It's pretty much gonna be a second family to you.



You'll be no different from kids your age.

Good luck:]How will life change if I convert to a Reform Jew?ask your rabbiHow will life change if I convert to a Reform Jew?Drastically , youre beard will grow 3 feet

Thats if youre a guyHow will life change if I convert to a Reform Jew?moving from one delusion to another, say no to reigion