The Conversion Episode, 2021: Ep. 274

This week on Unorthodox, we’re proud to present our fourth-annual conversion episode. On Shavuot we read the Book of Ruth, which tells the story of the first convert to Judaism. To celebrate Ruth and all the Jews by choice since then, we’re sharing stories of conversion from all over the world.

First, an interview with New York Times reporter Nellie Bowles, who has been chronicling her conversion process in her online newsletter, “Chosen by Choice.”

Tablet Fellow Nina Lichtenstein describes converting for her Jewish husband (and her Jewish mother-in-law) more than two decades ago, and staying Jewish for herself after their divorce.

Rapper Nissim Black shares his spiritual journey, which took him from devout Christianity to gangster rap and finally to Orthodox Judaism.

Novelist Jessamyn Hope tells the story of her Italian Catholic mother’s conversion to Reform Judaism, and the many conflicted feelings Jessamyn had about it throughout her own life.

Tablet Fellow Elie Bleier brings us a report from Israel about Nativ, a program that expedites conversions for soldiers serving in the IDF who aren't considered Jewish by the rabbinate.

Plus, hear stories from our listeners about their own conversion experiences.

Want more Unorthodox? Listen to our previous conversion episodes:

2020 Conversion Episode

2019 Conversion Episode

2018 Conversion Episode

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