My Conversion to Judaism Part 1: My Reform Conversion | Orthodox Jewish Mom (Jar of Fireflies)
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- Опубликовано: 23 июн 2021
- In this long awaited video I start telling the story of my conversion to Judaism. While I am now an Orthodox Jew, the part of my story that I am covering in this video is the lead up to deciding to become Jewish, and then my conversion to Reform Judaism. This video is the first in a series where I tell my story of converting to Judaism and my journey to where I am now, which is my conversion to Orthodox Judaism.
Hello and welcome! My name is Chana, I’m married to my best friend, and we have three wonderful children together. We also happen to be Orthodox Jews and we homeschool our kids. This video is a sneak peek into our daily lives :) You can see how this particular Jewish homeschool mom sets up her days, rolls with the punches, and gets it all done. Thanks for watching!
Part 2 of my Conversion to Judaism Story: • My Conversion to Judai...
Part 3 of my Conversion to Judaism Story: • My Conversion to Judai...
Conversion Q&A: • My Jewish Conversion Q...
#JewishConvert #JewishConverson #JewishLife #OrthodoxJew
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Hope you are all having a fantastic day! What did you think of this part of the story? What are you looking forward to next?
This was so interesting- thank you so much for sharing!
@@rebeccacastro5405 I am so glad you enjoyed it! Thank you so much for watching :)
I’m a little over a year into my reform conversion process. Your story is fascinating to me! I’m definitely finding myself draw to some aspects of Orthodox Judaism, but very much in my researching all the things phase. :)
@@tw4295 congratulations! That’s so exciting!
@@imoen00 so exciting! I hope your journey has been and remains a beautiful one!
WOW, Channah, I was raised Catholic as well, but was always drawn to the Jewish religion. In high school all of my friends were Jewish - about 90% of the school was Jewish, as a matter of fact. But as an adult, when my mother passed away when I was 47 years old and going through her papers I found out that she was Jewish (her mother's maiden name was Misch!)!!! But because of WWII she never told anyone - but my father knew of course. We are from Germany and I was born after the war! Well, just before my mother passed away she told two of my nieces that she was Jewish - it was like my world opened up - I always felt that I was Jewish - and I used to tell everyone in school that I was Jewish! I just think it was ironic!!! I'm now older of course but still trying to learn everything about being Jewish. Thank you for sharing your experience!!
If you mum jewush .you are jewush.
We all found our we were Jewish too… my last name is Mink and we always wondered. Because of ww2 my grandma and grandpa hid it .. moved to Canada and they settled in a very small town where everyone was Lutheran … they just wanted to blend in. … so used to being scared… ( I could
Cry). Long story short , we all decided we have to be who we are.: Jews and proud Jews. I hope my GG are proud of us even tho they are long long gone. I’m grateful
My mom when we were around 9 decided that’s it.: we are Jewish , not Lutheran and I’m raising my kids by the Torah. We are t orthodox, we are secular. I always joke, Jerry Seinfeld types. We had our bar and bat mitzvahs but we don’t keep kosher. Anyhoo… shalom and your story is so similar to mine. ✌🏼
me too...
So cool! I also found that my grandpa is jewish lately.
Wow amazing! You knew you are Jewish -!!!
I’ve contacted a Rabbi today it’s been the push I’ve needed thank you ❤
I’m 14 and was catholic now currently I’m converting through Reform Judaism and right when I’m old enough to drive I’ll do orthodoxy! I will meet with a Beit Din, and I’ll be immersed into a Mikvah, through Reform Judaism!
What a beautiful story, I’m from the uk and when I was 15(I’m now 41) I was fortunate enough to travel to America for a month with school, stay with a host family and go to school. The family I stayed with was Jewish and it was Passover at the time , I absolutely loved the whole experience, the celebration, family and friends being together, oh it was just wonderful. I’ll never, ever forget it. ❤️❤️
That is so cool! Thanks for sharing that story :)
@@jaroffireflies you’re welcome, we went to New York, Washington D.C, Philadelphia and Canada. The whole experience was definitely a pinch myself moment back then and now I’m an adult it was such a privilege to have experienced everything that I’d experienced at that age so many beautiful memories xx
@@hazellee8338 amazing!
Your face just lights up when you talk about your faith. I think that is a beautiful thing.. to have that light of love and joy when witnessing to people about your faith.
😊😊😊
As a Jew, I find your channel fascinating. My husband was raised in a completely secular home( didn’t keep Passover etc)where I was raised with Shabbat, Passover etc.part of our marriage agreement was keeping the holidays.In the last few years, my husband has started praying in the morning, we want to start keeping Shabbat etc. Great content!!
Thank you! And thanks for sharing some of your story :)
Whats keeping passover?
"This is where I'm supposed to be"
I felt that way at my first service, too. I'm in my conversion process, and Shabbat is the highlight of my week
Love that!
Cześć najlepszykrólik
Nice to see another Pole exploring Judaism on here.
My youngest daughter, who was 9 years old, came home from school and declared to me that she wanted to celebrate Hanukkah.
I said ok and then researched what to do. Thought she wanted 8 days of Hanukkah presents then Christmas too. Well not so. She then declared that she wanted to observe Passover. Now I had to get help to make sure everything was done correctly. She then said that she wanted to talk to a Rabbi. I made an appointment with the local Reform Rabbi. The Rabbi met with my daughter and then told me that she must start Hebrew and Sunday school immediately! My daughter completely immersed herself in learning Hebrew and everything Jewish. The women of the Temple took me under their wings to teach me how to instruct my daughter how to be a good Jewish woman, wife and mother. My daughter studied for five years and then had her conversion (she had a trial by three rabbis and the women of the Temple prepared her and observed her Mikvah) She then was Bat Mitzvah. She did her whole service in Hebrew and the Rabbi told the congregation that she was is best student ever. My daughter is an inspiration to me for her dedication and love for her Jewish life.
Wow that is so amazing! Thank you so much for sharing!
one of the most fascinating stories i have heard. Cant even tell u how blown away i m by your acceptance!
Thanks for sharing your story. Interestingly, I was raised in a totally secular home, but when I was in college and began to start seeking heavily, I first explored Reform Judaism. I was attending a temple and meeting with a Rabbi about conversion for a while, but ultimately it wasn't what I was seeking. I met Christ in the year after I stopped attending temple, and have been in the evangelical world for 20 years since. However, in the last 4 years I have been on a journey to embracing the Catholic faith, and am realizing that is where *I* belong. So I feel a bit like we are ships passing in the night! Haha. Thank you again for sharing your story.
I love this! I was raised Jewish -- then converted to Episcopalian, then felt much the same. I always saw my Jewish friends celebrating their holidays ((My mom was Jewish, but we were more of a Channukah and Passover type of Jew)) and have missed it, so this has inspired me to look into conversion classes around me! Thank you
Wow amazing! Since your mom is Jewish, you don’t need to convert, you’re already Jewish ❤️ You can just start living a Jewish life! I definitely recommend finding a rabbi to learn with or contacting something like Partners in Torah to find someone to learn with. Feel free to email me if you need any help or have questions 💜
I agree, in Jewish law, If your mother is Jewish, your Jewish, we all may go astray, I myself don’t do Shabbat, but it’s important to know you’re a Jew & to be proud of the fact, at what ever religious level do you want to do it. You have a holey jewish soul ur Neshama that is wanting to return home. I would Suggest you reach out to Chabad synagogue In your community, They are extremely helpful guiding Jews back this is exactly the kind of work they do. Just reach out Chabad Will be more than happy to help you. Best of luck
Am Yisroel Chi
Thank you for sharing this with us all. I enjoyed hearing your path. It's fascinating! I can't wait to hear the other half.
Oooh I have been waiting for this one!! I can’t wait for part 2! 😁😁😁
🎉🎉🎉😊😊😊
You are an amazing storyteller. I am binge watching your videos. So informative and entertaining. Thank you!
I just found your channel. I am loving these videos from Your life. Its very relaxing hearing your voice...its calming and reassuring. I love how your eyes light up when you talk about your faith and family! Many blessings to you and your family😊
Thank you so much for your lovely comment! And welcome to my channel 💜 I’m so glad you’re here!
Really interesting - looking forward to Part 2. Your honesty and enthusiasm is infectious! Thank you for sharing such a personal journey😍
Thank you so much for your kind and encouraging words! I’m excited to share part 2 with you on Monday!
Thank you so much for sharing I love learning about different cultures ! 💜🥰
My pleasure! Thank you so much for watching!
I love how you told this part of your story! You are so filled with joy!
Thank you!!! 😊😊😊
I recently found your channel and have really enjoyed learning more about Judaism through such a welcoming and insightful way! I grew up Roman catholic as well (catholic grade school & high school as well) and learning about other religions and what the similarities and differences are between them all. Thanks for sharing your story!!
Thank you so much!
Thank you for sharing your journey. I am inspired by you. Can't wait to see parts 2 & 3.
Enjoy!!!! 💜
This is such an interesting story. Looking forward to hearing the next step.
Thank you so much! I am looking forward to sharing it with you!
Kol Hakavod! It's so incredible that you are sharing your story. Your pintala yid is really burning bright. Baruch HaShem.
Can't wait for the rest of your story!
Love it! Can't wait for part 2!!
I see myself now where you were. Conversion is probably not on the cards for me for a while so I'm content doing 2x Torah study nights per week and reading as much as I can.. and learning Hebrew lol
Gah! Just wanna go the whole 9!
Going to wait until the end of Part 3 to make a longer comment, but just know that I loved finding your channel today. Thank you for telling your story!
Welcome! I am so glad that you are here!
My story flows similar to yours but different details . Raised Lutheran, questioned the theology I learned in 3years of catechism classes, converted years later through Renewal Rabbi, used a Conservative Mikvah, still trying to learn Hebrew. Love hearing your story, don’t feel nervous. Looking forward to the next parts. We were all there at Mt Sinai💞
I’m so glad you are going over this! I converted Reform first. My son was ill and I couldn’t move for quite a while. I knew it was a start but not where I wanted to stop. Yeah my Reform rabbi was not happy when I would ask about things I read on Chabad or Aish, lol.
Like wow. I love your story telling about how you converted to Judaism. :) Thank you so much for telling your story. Now onto part 2.
Thank you so much for watching!
i love how honest you explain your own experiences. like you really detail your security/insecurity on matters so well. i can almost feel what you feel.
Wow thank you! I really appreciate that compliment
@@jaroffireflies only the brave are honest
Hi Chana! I'm a (soon to be) conversion student who recently found your channel, your videos have really helped fill in the gaps in my Jewish learning (it's the little things books forget to cover). Anyway, thank you for sharing your journey and I hope you're having a great day!
You are so welcome! Thank you for your kind and encouraging words :) I’m so glad you found my channel and that it is helpful to you in your journey :)
I love, love, LOVE listening to your stories and perspectives. I was raised in a Roman Catholic family, and since I can remember, it never ever felt right to/for me. I follow devoutly a Norse Pagan path now, and there is nothing like finding your spirit, where your heart belongs in a spiritual sense 💛 thank you for sharing and educating and caring so very much 💛
I love all of this, I love that you listened to your inner dialog of questions and listened to your heart and took your chance on finding where you truly were meant to be. It certainly shows how at peace you are in your faith. Thank you for sharing, it's very very interesting, love it
I’m so glad you enjoyed :) Thank you so much for watching and for your kind words :)
I enjoyed this video. Very informative. Can’t wait for the next video. Thank you for sharing!
Thank you so much for watching! So glad you are enjoying!
I am so intrigued by this channel... Almost a magnetic pull as well! It's like listening to a friend have a conversation with you... This is we should all talk to each other and REALLY listen.
Thank you so much! I really appreciate you!
Chana, you 'kick ass' with your thinking and scolarly endeavours. I so wish i was local, id love to sit and chat about your religion. You explain things so good too. thank you again.
Thank you 😊 I love that compliment!
When my mom was a young girl her best friend at the time was Catholic. One day her friend turned to my mother with her dilemma. She had to go to confession and didn't know what to confess about. My mother suggested that they look at the ten commandments and pick one. Well they decided on one that neither knew what it was, but figured that if she didn't know what it was she probably transgressed it. That Sunday the Priest had a great laugh. The girls had decided on, "Thou shall not commit adultery"! 🤣
So interesting Chana! Thanks for sharing!
I have been waiting for this video!! I was so excited to see it posted. Your videos are so encouraging to my life. I feel like you’re my friend! 😂 Obviously a one sided friendship- but none the less- I look forward to the next video! Thank you!
I watched all three of your conversion videos. It was so fascinating, and emotional. I cried a the end, when it finally happened. You are so so special, and so talented. Your influence and example to all the Jewish community is incredible. May you be blessed, with long life, great health, happiness, and continued success in your holy work.
Thank you so very much! This meant a lot to me :) I really appreciate your comment!
Good evening Chana, I subscribed today after finding ypu entirely by accident. You are a very good story teller. I'm glad I don't have to wait for parts 2 and 3 😉. I'm a Christian (since birth but now not actively practicing) and have always felt that if I wasn't Christian, I'd be Jewish too. Thank you for sharing your life and balancing your family's privacy within that x
Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful comment Rebecca! I really appreciate :) I’m so glad you are enjoying my story! Thank you so much!
Wow, your response to whether you should be doing everything or not was SO like how I felt when my family first became Torah Observant. Something that I've found so beautiful and amazing and fascinating lately has been how many people have just all of sudden become interested in following with now history of religion. So amazing.
your journey is inspiring :) Thank you for sharing
Thank you so much for watching!
Thank you Chana for sharing your story. I am Jewish, raised conservative. I got married in a Orthodox service. I had to attend a mikvah. A beautiful part of the process. Very meaningful. I know exactly what you are talking about on your feelings of feeling at home. Being I was born and raised Jewish, I still get that same feeling of being at home.
How lovely! Thank you for sharing part of your story :)
I have only recently discovered your channel. You have such a gift for communicating and teaching. I'm a Christian and so grateful to be learning more about my Jewish roots. Thank you ❤🙏
Thank you so much for your kind words! And welcome!
Thank you for sharing your story! I’m glad you found your way :)
You are so welcome and thank you!
It is so special to hear your story. So many people don't know you can convert! (And there is so much misinformation out there about conversions!) This is why stories like yours are so important to share! :)
Thank you! You are so right! Because Jews don’t proselytize, I think people think you can’t convert.
@@jaroffireflies bingo. I would have converted years earlier if I had known. This was pre RUclips. Had no idea.
@@mcomeslast it’s so great the info is out there more now
@@jaroffireflies I’m so grateful you are helping put that out there.
@@mcomeslast 💜😊
I’m so happy I made it this far! Thank you for sharing your story ❤️
You are so welcome! Thank you for being here 💜
Your a amazing storyteller and so respectful . Chazak u'baruch
Thank you so very much
Sephardic ?
@@eliedecastro5716 Her family is Sephardic
@@Ch76452 do you know any Sephardic girl ? for Shidduch? 20 to 23 yrs old Our son is 26 one more year left in college ex IDF with good references (or a convert or willing to convert) let me know 😄
@@eliedecastro5716 Thanks for asking I do not. Our beth haknesset is small. The only girl is 15. I know there are many options in Seattle behadslacha and Chanukkah sameach
Your story is so interesting! Thank you for sharing
So glad you have enjoyed it!
Thank you for sharing your story! I was born into a Mormon family, but the religion didn’t ever make sense to me. I have studied every major religion and many types of spirituality, even going so far as to study theology in college.
While doing geology, I found out I’m part Jewish, and that sent me down a rabbit hole. Long story short; after studying many belief systems, I feel like the structure and beliefs of the Jews is what’s right for me and am considering converting to Judaism.
Thank you SO MUCH for sharing your story and for your channel. I’ve really been enjoying seeing your lifestyle and hearing about your experiences of being an Orthodox Jew.
Im revisiting this video because I think I’m ready to start my own serious exploration into Judaism. I’ve felt a pull to it since I was a child but was also raised very strict Catholic. I never ever saw myself as anything else, mostly because there was a lot of cultural pressure and guilt. But on my own over the past years I’ve pulled further and further away, and now…I think it’s time to really delve deep into who I feel I really am! ❤
I've been binging all your videos...so good! thank you for sharing this journey with us. I have to be honest, as a Jew who grew up in an assimilated/not religious household, I am learning SO much from you!
Hello Rose! I’m so glad you’re here! So happy you are enjoying:) Feel free to reach out if you have any questions!
@@jaroffireflies Thank you so much, that is so kind of you!
@@Rose-ip2xu you’re so welcome!
It is beautiful . It is so special in so many ways. I have researched and read for years and prayed . I am older now and maybe its not possible . I felt your heart as you talked . Thank You
Channah, I was born into a Catholic family too, although my family was more like the 'only go to Mass on Easter and sometimes on Christmas' type of Catholic. I became interested in Judaism when I was a teenager and I didn't realize that conversion was possible until last year when I was 21. I'm 22 now and have been teaching myself everything about Judaism for the past year. That includes reading lots of books and watching videos like yours. Judaism is such a beautiful thing, and I really hope I get to meet with a rabbi in a year or two when I move out to the city so I can start the conversion process. Thanks for sharing your conversion experience, it was really helpful and relatable 🙂
I’m so glad you enjoyed this! Enjoy your learning :)
thank you for telling your story! i can relate a bit, i grew up roman catholic and was baptised and received confirmation but my family is mostly non practicing. i go to a catholic high school too and i’m 16 years old, but i’ve never identified as catholic but always felt spiritual and religious and connected to a higher being. i learnt that i have prominent jewish ancestry through my mother and grandfathers mother but they were heavily oppressed by the church of england. learning about this has recently spurred me to research judaism more in depth as well as classes at school on judaism, islam and other religions. i’m very interested and think i may want to convert so i’ve been researching my local jewish community and conversion. and i have to say i’m a bit shy about it, i have no jewish friends or anything, besides my grandpa/mother who never practiced judaism. i’ve never been to any religious place of worship besides a catholic church, and although my family would most likely support me i feel a bit shy about going to a synagogue for the first time or talking to a rabbi. anyways i hope i will be able to start the conversion process soon and thank you for your story it gives me great hope that i’m not the only one :)
I can't like this story enough. I keep clicking on the like button, realizing, I already did it. Such a wonderful story. Had I known I could convert, I would have as well.
Beautiful story! You are a true inspiration
Thankyou for your videos. I have found it fascinating and always wanted to know about your wonderful religion.
I love hearing about your faith. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you so much for watching and for your kind comment! I appreciate you!
This is really interesting! My mom converted reform so I have to convert Orthodox, I really love your channel. Can't wait for the next part!
You probably don’t have to convert orthodox… unless you want to. Does the local Jewish community accept you as a fellow Jew and are you happy there?
@@christo-chaney only the reform movement excepts you as Jewish if your mom converted reform . To the Conservative movement your not Jewish and to the Orthodox movement your not Jewish .. However , if someone's mom converted Orthodox before they were born the person is automatically fully Jewish at birth .
@@WizeOwl764 not necessarily the case. The conservative movement accepts my reform conversion because it met all the halachic requirements of the conservative movement.
You dont have to but you can if you want to.
Thank you so much! I grew up catholic, so I understand your experience. Thanks for sharing!
I have been waiting for this for so long. I have been so curious of what drew you personally to our beautiful religion.
So glad I can finally share it with you! Glad you enjoyed!
i was raised fundamentalist christian. i’ve always had a similar pull toward judaism and i’ve planned to convert for about a year now. 6 months until i turn 18
Very exciting! Best of luck to you!
Raised Jewish until my parents divorced, I was then sent to live with my strict Methodist Grandparents. I was NOT allowed to be Jewish. Forced to sit in the front row every Sunday to *fix* me !?! Conflicted/confused, why did I have to sit an listen to these lies? When I turned 18 I returned.
Wow! What a story! Amazing that you held on and returned!
love u. shabat shalom. all the best
Chama your story really makes me think about myself and mu story. How Jewish faith always light sparks in me. I am still trying to figured it out how should approach or try my conversion. Thanks a lot for help me with your channel and your videos.
You are so very welcome!
Hi Channah You are always so sweet. Thanks for sharing your Journey. Although you already mentioned it in passing thanks ♥
Hanna you are so inspiring , smart , humble and othentic ❤️♥️♥️ thank you so much for sharing , i cried when you said 'i felt home' , i did my search too over the years and i totally understand what you are saying☺️! Being a Jew is absolutely all about searching ❤️
love you sis 🤍
Hagit from Israel 🤗
Thank you so much Hagit!!!
I love learning about different religions and out of all of them I have mad respect for the Orthodox Jews. My 9 yr old is very curious about religions and different cultures. I remember when he was 6 he had asked me why we didn't celebrate Hanukkah and was upset that we missed a holiday. He was really adorable about it. Thank you for sharing your story
That is so sweet! Thank you for sharing that story :) And thank you for your kind and encouraging words :)
Christianity and Islam happened because 2,000 years ago the Jews did not want to lead the Greek and Ronan world to believe in God and keep the Torah.This is what Jesus Christ intended but His followers made up a watered down version of what Jesus taught .
Mohammed did the same 6oo years later. Mohammed visited Jewish Synagogues and Christian churches ,but no-one wanted to tell him how to find God. Islam is what he picked up as he journeyed to Syria, Egypt and Saudi Arabia. I studied all 3 of these religions in my studies with the Open University. - I would like to become a Reform Jew but there is no synagogue in Salisbury, Wiltshire . I am classed as a God-Fearer.
This is soooooo similiar to my story -- EVERYTHING! amazing to me
Thank you. Can’t wait for next video
Thank you!
I converted to Judaism this past April, I'm exploring the different streams of Judaism, and this video is the first of your channel that I've seen. I'm excited to start watching your channel and learn from your journey!
Hello and welcome!!!! I’m so glad you’re here! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions:) I’m happy to help if I can!
Orthodox only, you will be fulfilled! Bless you
I have loved Jewish people for a long time and love this video finding out converting to Judaism . Thank you a good job.
Thanks for sharing your story! I was also raised RC and have since converted to Reform Judaism. I believe there is only one reform Mikvah in nyc, which is where I went. I had the attendant with me and my beit din of 3 Rabbis waiting outside the door. I was told before about the rules and there was also a reminder list in the room of how to properly prepare. I’m vegan so I am kind of kosher-ish by default, so I’m not sure if they would ask someone to follow that prior? The rabbi who married myself and my husband also recommended we do a mikvah of sorts by bathing in a lake with our friends on lookout patrol (it was in NH). Very interesting to hear your story and I look forward the next parts!!!
So interesting! Wow! Thank you for sharing some of your story with us :) And belated congratulations on your conversion! It’s a big deal :)
I just went through the Mikvah today for a Conservative/Masorti conversion. I chose the name Eliana (it means G-d has answered), because I searched for a long time for what the truth is for me. I was expecting to feel immense joy and I did feel some joy, but I felt more of a release with immense relief. I got emotional, and cried as I was getting out of the water. I want to make Aliyah to Israel, and convert orthodox. Thanks so much for your conversion story! 💖💖
That’s so amazing! Mazal tov!!!!!!!!! So happy and excited for you!!!!
Read Isaiah 53. All over the Old Testament are prophecies about the messiah who is Jesus the Jewish messiah
@@MissCocoSays: That doesn't happen to be true. Nowhere in the Hebrew scriptures did God ever tell us to expect a SECOND set of scriptures (i.e. NT) after Mt. Sinai. PLEASE do the research!
@@janishart5128 so prophecies by Isaiah is not from God then according to you?
Behatzlacha!
I can understand why you were nervous but thank you for sharing, much appreciated.
Thank you so much for your kind and supportive words 💜😊
Can’t wait to hear the rest
If the story!
Thank you for watching!
Just finding these videos now, but I love your story. I also went through a reform conversion and still feel that there is something missing. As a gay woman in an interfaith marriage, Orthodox conversion is not an option for me, but I’ll be exploring a conservative conversion process and so your story really resonates with me. Thank you for sharing this! ❤️
Thank you so much! I am so glad you found my little corner of RUclips :) I totally hear you about something being missing. Best of luck on you on your journey! Please keep me posted! Its very exciting!
Ironically lesbian acts might actually not be an issue in the Torah. The prohibition is more against men.
The part about the Mikva really got me. I was born into a Jewish family and never understood why we didn’t follow Gods laws. I also started questioning when I was young and at age 16 became a Christian. While at a(fairly liberal) church, I remember asking someone about how to honor my parents and their beliefs while following Jesus. I was told “Oh. That’s an old thing. You don’t really have to do that. Honoring parents isn’t something most teenagers do”. I never went back to that church and found a wonderful church that actually wanted to follow the Bible.
Thank you for sharing your story!
Wow I am shocked that the church told you that! I am glad you found a place that is better suited for you. Best of luck on your journey!
I have been looking forward to this video, thank you so much for sharing such a personal story. I particularly liked how you were drawn to the Jewish religion from such a young age. it was clearly meant to be :)
How long did you keep the name Miriam? Also would you share your original Christian name with us? I am fascinated with your story and looking forward to parts 2 and 3 :D
Thank you so much for watching! I’m so glad you enjoyed it :) Yes, I agree that it was definitely meant to be! I never went by Miriam, but it was my Hebrew name until my Orthodox conversion about 6 or so years later :)
I had no idea you converted everything looks so first nature for you! I want to be like you one day!! I am still going through my conversion process but it has been a long one, more because of where I am located, me and my husband moves from México to San Diego but San Diego doesn't have a big Jewish community either so that is were we are at, waiting for the Beit Din to approve our small synagogue.
Wow best of luck on your conversion! Thank you for your kind words :) My conversion was a decade ago, so I’ve had some practice!
My classmate and her husband are the Chabad Rabbi and Rebbetzin in San Diego. I'd be happy to put you in touch with them.
We live in San Diego (Scripps Ranch), it’s big jewish community ! We have everything you need to get converted and have a jewish life (kosher food, jewish school, mikvah, shul of course) Just google it !!!
So fascinating thank you so much for sharing. X
You are so welcome! Thank you for watching!
I was baptized as catholic, raised catholic, but I completely left religion back in 2011 due to personal reasons. But my mom was fully respectful of it and totally understood why I left. I still love learning and studying religion though
With all due respect how can you give up on the Eucharist and the Blessed Mother
@@genevievewilson6769 personal reasons, and too much drama and narcissistic behaviors in religion
@Chickie Nuggie You mean "religious people" not "religion". Considering yourself " religious " does not make you a good person, there are been plenty of adherents in every religion who are selfish, manipulative, bigoted, etc. who quote their religious texts and leaders while their behavior directly violates the basic tenets of their religion. Did the first Gentile converts to Christianity turned away from the religion due to the bullying and treatment by the Jews who followed Christ? Maybe some did, and it's understandable if they did because who wants to be part of a group where the majority of the members treat you like rubbish, but the majority stayed. Why? Because they knew the religion is True, and that Truth is more important, that it is worth the abuse, than anything else on this Earth. While community is important, God is more so, and we do not go to liturgies or mass for others- and trust me, I've been told on different occasions I was not welcome somewhere, or shut out by those with social standing within the parish, people who made it very clear that because I did not grow up in that parish I had no place trying to get involved or pushing for the reforms called for by our Patriarch and Synod of Bishop- we are there for God, to receive the Precious Body and Life-Giving Blood of Christ. Jesus was willing to suffer physical brutality and verbal abuse and die an extremely painful death by slow suffocation on the cross out of love for us and you're turning your back on Him because you have issues with how other people behave.
If you don't believe it's fine to say that, especially to a bunch of internet strangers. You don't believe or don't want to believe in God and follow His commandments, you have free will and that is your prerogative because if you did believe in God and believe the Catholic Church is the True Church founded by Jesus to maintain and defend His teachings and administer His Sacraments then you wouldn't want to leave.
@@suitablyCatlike 1) I'm not reading all of that
2) i meant exactly what i said, I left RELIGION, I'm not religious anymore at all whatsoever.
@@suitablyCatlike oh and btw u dont have to be apart of a religion to believe in a God
I've been practicing Judaism for about 3-3.5 years and am mid conversion from a Christian upbringing. I felt that same magnetic pull towards Judaism, but for me it started in middle school. My parents unfortunately have not been very supportive and despite being 32 yrs old, they still can't accept it.
I hope your parents come around! Its hard for parents for sure, It took a while for my parents to come around but now (while they still wish I was Catholic), they respect how I live my life and are happy with how I live it.
This is so wonderful! We have almost identical paths.
So fun!
Hi. You are terrific… so enjoying your videos… thank you for sharing your life…
Thanks for watching!
Love love love! Thank you Chana! I too was born and raised RC. Spent most of my time of catechism classes in the hallway for questioning the nuns. I also did all the sacraments minus marriage. The only reason I did confirmation was to please my mother. The exact quote was "this is the last thing I'll ever ask you to do in the church" from my mother. I'm saving money to move to a Jewish community. I'm the mean time, reading, learning, and as you, " living as much of a Jewish life possible", until i find and move into an Orthodox community. Thank you so much for sharing your story!
Your story is so similar to mine! Amazing! Thank you so much for sharing some of your story 💜
@@jaroffireflies anytime and, thank you for sharing your stories on RUclips.
@@nicolepelletier9081 😊❤️
Yay!!! im so excited for this video.
Yay! I was so nervous about this but now that I’m actually posting it I’m excited! 😊
@@jaroffireflies you are sharing something very personal about yourself, so I can totally understand the nerves. BUt you and your journey is very inspiring.
@@SonyasPrep thank you 💜😊
I was brought up Baptist! And grew up in an English suburb of Montreal and had a Lot of Jewish friends and learn a Hebrew song and dance in elementary school which my proper Brit mum wasn’t quite sure about. My Dad was really an Atheist but respected other peoples ideals - he worked within a predominantly Jewish industry in Montreal and had been to many marriages and funerals and had his own yarmulke. When I was a teenager, many of my friends went on Kibbutz for 2-3 summers in a row. I begged my Mum to let me go. Anyway. I haven’t been a very religious person but was very drawn to the Judaism. I am fascinated by your story. thank you!
You had a beautiful personation! I 💕 loved it.
Really learning a lot about Judaism, many thanks it is so interesting and enjoyable.
Thank you so much 😊
Ok now That I have listened to your story about your conversion I understand much better why everything related to Orthodox Judaism is so important to you. I have a very good catholic friend who had a reconversion and although different in the ways she is the same in that she found her path and happiness in her beliefs. I wish for you and your family the best may God bless you and may He give us all better understanding because for the sake and in the name of God mankind has done terrible things
I have always wanted to hear how adults convert! Wonderful that your journey started well before instructions in Judaism. Looking forward to hearing more and bonus you learned Hebrew!! Wonder filled language.
Hi Chana! I am newly subscribed to your channel and am enjoying your videos! You are soooo insightful and inspiring! This is an amazing video. I was born and raised Jewish, but have a friend who converted and she puts me to shame on so many subjects! Can't wait to watch all of your other videos. Thank you for sharing this life with us!
Hi Fern! Thank you so much for your sweet comment! I’m so glad you are enjoying my video :) Thank you for watching!
This is so exciting!! Its so fascinating to hear your story and i can't wait to hear the rest. ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you! So glad you are enjoying!
Thank you so much for sharing your walk converting to Orthodox Judaism. It opened my eyes to really understand the process. I am looking forward to start my conversion so can you please share the place you attended in Cali? I loved your videos. I just started watching today while I was home sick but your spirit is so contagious that I immediately felt better. Many thanks ❤️🙇🏻♀️
Hello and thank you so much for your kind words! Wishing you a full and quick recovery!
This woman has such a beautiful, enthusiastic energy, I just loved hearing her story and can't wait to hear the other 2 parts. What a delightful person she is -- what a plus for the Jews!
Thank you for sharing your story. My mother was Protestant and my dad wasn't really anything. When I was about 6 years-old we joined the Roman Catholic Church. My mother didn't give up Protestantism she went to both churches. She was a professional musician so would play the piano/organ for church functions. I attended Catholic school first-eigth grade. All throughout my young adulthood into now I have been interested in Judaism. I always favored the Old Testament over the New. My name is Rachel and I have always loved the story of Rachel in the bible. Maybe one day I will attend temple.
Thank you for sharing!
@@jaroffireflies 🙋
I think it is important to explore other cultures and become more than merely familiar with other religious traditions-and if a different cultural set of traditions appeals, to immerse yourself as much as you feel necessary. To paraphrase William James, “feeling is the deeper source of religions and the various traditions are like the text of human emotions translated into different languages”.
I am very interested in the next two installments. As a Catholic, I am very interested in how your family has managed your conversion. I think if one of my children left the church, I would respect their journey but still have some sadness in my heart. 💜
@@jaroffireflies I was just coming back to say that I wouldn’t want you to share their personal feelings in any manner that would feel uncomfortable. 💜
Hi Chana, watching more of your videos today and this one just blew me away. I was raised Catholic also and even as a young child had a lot of issues with the faith (why do I have to confess to a priest, I talk to God every day and he already knows, etc.) Also, the transubstantiation was hard for me to get my head around. Long story short by the time we moved from NJ to Virginia 30 years ago I was not longer a practicing Catholic. My children were raised in the faith, married and only 1 daughter remained in the faith. After being here for about a year I really felt God calling me back so to speak. We attended the 2 Catholic churches in the area and neither of the priests were friendly or welcoming, so I was done! A friend suggested the Lutheran Church and my husband was familiar with the faith, so we decided to try the local Lutheran Church one Sunday. As soon as I walked into the sanctuary, I know this was why God moved me to Virginia! The congregation was so friendly and welcomed us with open arms. As we studied to become Lutheran converts, I was more convinced, Martin Luther had the same issues with the catholic faith!! I don't believe I ever really knew God or Jesus until I joined the Lutheran church. My church and church family are my life. My children are in 3 different states, so my church family had gotten me through some really difficult times when my children couldn't be here with me. My husband's diagnosis of Alzheimer's, the difficulty of caring for him by myself for almost 10 years, having to sell our "forever" home that was too much for me to take care of, and finally his passing 3 years ago. I can't wait to see the 2nd video about your conversion.
I’m so glad you found your spiritual home! 💜
For me, confirmation was a matter of peer pressure. My parents held off until I was around 9 or 10 years old, but it really wasn't an informed decision for me. In fact, the patron saint I chose fit the most destructive parts of my life. I later left the church at age 17. I tried other christian sects, and married in the Presbyterian church. I was told I could not convert to Judaism by Jews. That was, in fact, a good thing because I went down a different path. But I'm so happy you found your spiritual space. Looking forward to the continue.
I so can't wait until part 2. My husband is Jewish and I'm finally starting my conversation. I have always thought I was going to be Jewish since I was a kid. I would get into so much trouble in Sunday School as a child because I didn't believe the bible was right. I had one Southern Baptist parent and one COGIC parent. I took a world religion class in college and studied each religion just because I knew I was missing something. Thank you for sharing your story its nice to know that other people in the world feel this way.
You are so welcome! Thank you for sharing some of your story! Very exciting that are are starting your conversion! So happy for you that you have found what is right for you and that you are starting that process to be fully there :) Keep me posted!!!