Rabbi Rick Jacobs discusses conversion and antisemitism

The Rising Connection: Rabbi Rick Jacobs on the Surge in Judaism

Since October 7th, the number of people converting to Judaism has been on the rise, as noted by Rabbi Rick Jacobs, the president of the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ). Rabbi Jacobs, a staunch supporter of Israel, has been mobilizing the Reform movement to stand behind Israel and combat the increasing antisemitism in North America.

Key Insights:

• Rabbi Jacobs shared his experiences from three visits to Israel since the war began, highlighting the trauma and resilience of the Israeli people.
• He emphasized the importance of combating antisemitism wherever it is found, regardless of political affiliations.
• Rabbi Jacobs discussed the Reform movement’s unwavering support for Israel and its commitment to Jewish values.

In light of recent events, Rabbi Jacobs noted a surge in interest in Jewish life and a rise in conversions to Judaism, across all denominations. While the Reform movement may be evolving, it continues to grow in both North America and Israel, challenging perceptions of its future.

As Rabbi Jacobs continues to navigate the complexities of Jewish identity and communal challenges, he remains dedicated to building bridges and fostering a deeper connection to Jewish values in a rapidly changing world.