CCAR RESPONSA
American Reform Responsa
70. A Convert with a Christian Family
(Vol. XCII, 1982, pp. 219-220)QUESTION: A man has studied Judaism for several years, involved himself thoroughly in the life of the Jewish community, participated in Jewish charitable ventures, and is currently studying Hebrew. He wishes to convert to Judaism. His wife, however, intends to remain a Christian. Their children are adults, and they plan no further children. Both individuals have reached middle age. Shall we accept this individual and thereby create a mixed marriage? (Rabbi Peter S. Knobel, Evanston, Illinois)ANSWER: It is quite clear that the motivation of the individual’s involvement is sincere and that his commitment has already been tested through study and participation in Jewish life which has extended over several years. Also, there is no indication of any outside motivation which prompted him in the direction of Judaism. He has, therefore, fulfilled the traditional requirements (Yev. 46, 47; Yad, Isurei Bi-a 15; Shulchan Aruch, Yoreh De-a 268). Family problems which might arise through a conversion should be investigated and dealt with. The questioner has suggested that we are, however, creating a mixed marriage, and since we consider such marriages wrong, we may have placed a stumbling block before this man who would join us (A. Z. 6a). It is for this reason that Solomon B. Freehof has answered the question negatively (Current Reform Responsa, pp. 215ff). He suggests that we advise this man to remain a Ger Toshav and a friend of our people, thereby demonstrating his closeness to Judaism. Such individuals have always had a very honored status among our people, as for example Aim Paillere. Clearly, however, another road would also be open to us. As this individual has shown such a long, continuous interest in Judaism, it would be wrong to exclude him. He has lived a Jewish life, attended the synagogue, accepted the tenets of Judaism, given to Jewish charity, and so we should accept him as part of our people. We have not in modern times excluded a Jew who has married a non-Jew from any portion of Jewish life, so we should welcome this sincere man into the synagogue. We recommend that he be welcomed and accepted.Walter Jacob
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