“Basic Judaism” For Jews and Non-Jews Alike Taught by Rabbi Bernice K. Weiss Winter 2012 Classes Seven one-hour evening sessions Location and dates announced soon Fee: $118 + $10 Registration “Studying with Rabbi Weiss has been like exercise for my soul. My life is in better shape, I’m a stronger person, and there is less weight on my shoulders.” —Lauren Sprague, DC “Rabbi Weiss’s expertise of over twenty-two years makes her a forerunner in the field of conversion and teaching interfaith couples. . . . Her sensitivity to the specific needs of her students is an inspiration to those who have studied with her.”  —Student, College Park, MD

The Washington Institute for Conversion and the Study of Judaism, under the direction of Rabbi Bernice Weiss, offers individual counseling, private and group instruction, education, outreach, and support services, which meet the needs of all personschoosing Judaism.  The Institute has created a comprehensive study program, utilizing textual materials dealing with Jewish history, law, and rituals. 

Jews by Choice, and those wishing to learn more about Judaism, will use these textual materials but will focus primarily upon the Biblical Text.  These studies are designed to fully integrate the Jew by Choice into the spiritual community, thus enabling him or her to become an active participant in Jewish life.

Adult Study:  The Institute is especially devoted to the unique needs and interests of adult study. Students love learning with Rabbi Weiss, and she is always available for questions and makes the studies enjoyable for those that have the chance to learn with her. 

Judaism is a rich tradition that shapes and defines all aspects of family life.  It is more than a religion; it is a way of life.  Today, more than one-half of the Jewish population who marries will marry someone who is not Jewish.  When a family decides to share Jewish heritage, the decision to become a Jew by Choice can be difficult.  The Washington Institute for Conversion and the Study of Judaism can offer the individual who wishes to convert, or study, an opportunity to experience the warmth, wisdom, and the rewards of Jewish communal life.  The Institute seeks to fulfill the needs of the convert by providing lectures, group classes, individual instruction, practical courses on the observance of Jewish rituals and holidays, and marriage ceremonies.

Rabbi Weiss, author of the book Converting to Judaism—Choosing to be Chosen: Personal Stories, has developed unique programs and methods to help those choosing Judaism.  Her warmth and personal style are sensitive to the special needs of Jews by Choice, providing them the necessary support to integrate themselves into the Jewish community.  She enthusiastically empowers her students to begin a life-long process of learning about Judaism.  Rabbi Weiss does not convert anyone personally.  She just teaches her love of tradition.  If a student, after their course of study, decides that Judaism is what they want to embrace, she will find the appropriate sources, and help make this possible.

	Private Lessons Available via Skype! Study privately from the comfort of your own home—at a time that is convenient for you! Whether you live overseas or stateside, lessons are available and tailored specifically for your individual needs.

For more information, contact:

     Rabbi Bernice Weiss
     The Washington Institute for Conversion and the Study of Judaism
     P.O. Box 342105, West Bethesda, Maryland 20827
     Phone and Fax: 202-216-9839
     E-mail: bkweiss@converttojudaism.org

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