Rabbi Miriam Terlinchamp’s encounter with two prison inmates, Ari Kingsman and Joshua Phillips, led to a groundbreaking journey of non-traditional Jewish conversions behind bars. Despite facing challenges and doubts about the process, Terlinchamp embarked on a year-long adventure to help Kingsman and Phillips convert to Judaism from inside the Monroe Correctional Complex.
The podcast series “Tales of the Unbound” chronicles this extraordinary story, shedding light on the obstacles and transformative experiences faced by all involved. Terlinchamp’s unconventional approach to conversion raised questions about traditional Jewish practices and the role of gatekeepers in the community.
While the prison environment posed unique challenges, Terlinchamp’s commitment to inclusivity and her belief in removing barriers to Judaism drove her to navigate the complexities of facilitating conversions within the legal constraints of incarceration.
The journey not only transformed the lives of Kingsman and Phillips but also challenged the norms of Jewish practice, inspiring reflections on forgiveness, restorative justice, and the authenticity of one’s faith. As the podcast series concludes, the impact of this remarkable story resonates far beyond the prison walls, prompting discussions about inclusion, acceptance, and the evolving nature of Jewish identity.