Frequently Asked Questions
Does EJF promote conversions in intermarriage?
No! EJF's programs are only for those intermarried couples who have already made the decision to pursue a universally accepted conversion. It does not actively market or promote its services to intermarried couples.
Where does EJF find the couples it serves?
Although most intermarried couples in the US (now estimated at more than 50% of all marriages of Jews) never pursue conversion, or at best obtain a conversion from a Conservative or Reform rabbi, a growing number are approaching local Orthodox rabbonim with the intent to convert and live as Orthodox Jews. It is these rabbonim that make EJF aware of the interested couples. In many cases, the process begins with the couple or one of the spouses participating in one of the many seminars and classes that all kiruv organizations sponsor throughout the country. The participating couples become sufficiently inspired to either pursue a universally accepted conversion or to upgrade their existing conversion so that it is accepted everywhere.
Are all the couples seeking conversion for the first time?
No, many have undergone a conversion that does not meet the test of halacha, namely acceptance of Torah and mitzvos, and have become aware of the deficiency of their conversion. After being told what it would take to obtain a universally accepted conversion, some pursue the halachic conversion. In some cases, they learn about their flawed conversion when they attempt to become fully integrated in a vibrant Orthodox Jewish community.
What are the benefits to couples of EJF's program?
Many couples have already been victimized by fraudulent or problematic conversions. By providing a program that has uncompromising halachic standards and referrals to batei din with universal recognition, EJF assures committed couples that their conversion will be ironclad and universally accepted. What is at stake is the future of the entire family which includes membership in shuls, children's acceptance into day schools and yeshivos, participation in Jewish communal activities and proper marriages. EJF is seeking to prevent the tragedies that have occurred with fraudulent conversions that could not stand up to the test of halacha, which has devastated so many families.
Has EJF set up special Batei Din for Geyrus and does it intend to do so in the future?
No! EJF has not and will not set up its own batei din. It will, however, support batei din that share the goals of EJF in promulgating geyrus procedures that are in accordance with the guidelines of some of the foremost halachic authorities.
Who are the rabbonim that guide EJF?
EJF enjoys the support of a cross section of halachic luminaries as is evidenced by the impressive list of speakers and participants who have appeared at EJF conferences in the US and Israel. EJF follows the guidelines of the venerable sage Harav Moshe Feinstein zt"l, as directed by his son, Harav Reuven Feinstein, Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshiva of Staten Island, Harav Sholom Yosef Eliyashiv, Harav Eli Ber Wachtfogel, Harav Shmuel Auerbach and Harav Shmuel Lazer Stern.
Isn't EJF duplicating what other rabbinic organizations do?
No! EJF does not and will not set up its own batei din, perform actual conversions or compete with other rabbinic organizations involved in geyrus. It will, however, render whatever support is requested by batei din to further promote universally accepted conversions.
Why are universally accepted conversions so important?
Once a family resolves to become full fledged members of the Jewish community, the conversion must be in full compliance with halacha and universally accepted. What is at stake is the future of the entire family as functioning members of the Jewish community.
Does EJF relax halachic standards to win broader acceptance?
No! On the contrary, The goal and mission of EJF is to reject compromise and pursue conversions that are accepted by the overwhelming majority of halachic authorities.
