At a time when being Jewish feels more dangerous than ever, why are more people choosing to become Jewish?


In this powerful episode, host Rabbi Adam Mintz and Meredith Berkman are joined by Rabbi Myriam Sommer from Paris to explore what conversion to Judaism looks like in a post October 7 world.

Myriam shares her personal journey as a modern Orthodox rabbi leading a growing community outside the traditional French system, while raising a young family. Together, they unpack the surprising rise in people seeking conversion during a time of increased antisemitism, and the deeply personal reasons driving that decision.

The conversation dives into the realities of Jewish life in France, including the challenges of the Consistoire system, the emotional and social cost of conversion, and the tension between institutional control and grassroots community building.

This episode offers a rare and honest look at faith, identity and resilience in one of the world’s most complex Jewish landscapes.


Key Takeaways

  1. You may feel pulled towards identity and belonging most strongly during moments of crisis
  2. You can encounter significant institutional barriers when choosing to convert, especially in traditional systems
  3. You might discover that community and connection matter more than formal recognition


Timestamps

  • 00:00:00 – October 7 as a turning point for Jewish identity
  • 00:01:00 – Introduction to the podcast and Rabbi Myriam Ackerman Sommer
  • 00:03:00 – Becoming a rabbi while raising young children
  • 00:05:00 – Antisemitism and fear in post October 7 France
  • 00:06:00 – Why more people are seeking conversion during crisis
  • 00:08:00 – The idea of a “spark” of Jewish identity reigniting
  • 00:12:30 – What makes the French Jewish community unique
  • 00:14:30 – Rising antisemitism and public hostility in France
  • 00:24:00 – The hidden reality of converting in today’s climate
  • 00:34:30 – Inside the French conversion system and its barriers


Links


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