sincerity in ways which could not be anticipated. The course of study, therefore, is important both for what is learned and the additional level of sincerity which it elicits.
In this instance we must say that there really was no course of study at all and this perspective convert was hurriedly moved through the ritual. Bedi-avad, the conversion is valid. This is in keeping with the traditional sources which simply stated that a few major and a few minor commandments were taught to the perspective convert. He/she was asked whether they accepted the commandments, and that was followed by ritual of conversion(M. Nedarim 3.11; B K 5.4; Shulhan Arukh, Orah Hayyim 199.4). We can see that in previous times the instruction was much less formal although, of course, the perspective convert had to be warned and discouraged, but if he/she persisted the authorities accepted the individual.
In this instance the life pattern of the woman in question has indicated that she is serious about conversion. She has made Judaism very much part of her existence, she participates in the synagogue and has been actively involved in the Jewish community. We should encourage her to participate in adult education programs; she will probably do so anyhow. There is no reason to question her conversion. It is valid and must be accepted.