SELECTED REFORM RESPONSA

encouraged to proceed in these directions if that is the custom of the community; however, neither custom is mandatory. It is quite clear from tradition that if such an individual at any time undergoes Tevilah, even though not specifically for the purpose of conversion, it would be considered the same as if she had undergone it for that purpose(Shulhan Arukh, Yoreh Deah 268.3). This should be considered seriously if the family has any intention of settling in Israel . A Hebrew name of the convert’s choice can be appropriately provided at this time as well.

In summary, it would be perfectly possible to accept such a woman as a convert to Judaism with very little further action on her part. This step should be made as easy as possible, and we should do everything in our power to bring gerei toshav completely into the sphere of Judaism .

*Walter Jacob , American Reform Responsa, New York , 1983,#66.