Orthodox conversion learning · Thornhill and Toronto
A structured path through Jewish belief, Hebrew, prayer, Torah, mitzvos, Shabbos, Yom Tov, relationships and life in an Orthodox community—with personal guidance from Rabbi Yossi Michalowicz.
A serious and personal journey
Considering Orthodox conversion, or already studying toward conversion? Westmount Shul & Learning Centre has organized Rabbi Yossi Michalowicz's extensive class collection into a practical learning path.
Every person begins with a different background. The curriculum therefore distinguishes between central courses and series from which Rabbi Michalowicz may recommend particular classes. He is happy to guide sincere prospective converts personally and help organize an appropriate course of study.
The central course
Could You Pass a Jewish Conversion Test? is the backbone of this curriculum. Its 70 classes move from waking in the morning and prayer through brachos, kashrus, Jewish holidays, interpersonal mitzvos and the practical experience of Shabbos.
Begin here. Rabbi Michalowicz can then guide you toward the additional subjects most appropriate for your background and stage of learning.
Belief, identity and calendar
Increasing Your Jewish IQ introduces the Thirteen Principles of Jewish Faith, the Hebrew calendar and months, the Torah timeline, the Ten Commandments and other essential foundations of Jewish identity.
Hebrew and prayer
These classes develop basic Hebrew reading, explain the structure and meaning of Jewish prayer, and help a learner participate comfortably in synagogue. Understanding Jewish Prayer was originally presented to women, but its content is appropriate for everyone.
Torah literacy
Begin with Bereishis and Shemos, continue through selected Torah Level Competency courses, and join the ongoing weekly Parsha cycle. The goal is a working relationship with Chumash and the central story of the Jewish people—not completion of hundreds of recordings at once.
Mitzvos and practical halacha
Learn how mitzvos shape an ordinary day and an observant Jewish home. The separate brachos series can reinforce material already introduced in the central conversion course, while the tzedakah and maaser classes add another essential area of practical Jewish responsibility.
Living Shabbos
The central course teaches preparation, candles, kiddush, meals, havdalah and Melaveh Malkah. Selected classes from The Shabbos Queen and Laws of Shabbos deepen both the meaning and practical observance of the day.
Recordings cannot replace Shabbos meals, synagogue services and learning food preparation with observant families. That experience is an essential part of the curriculum.
Yom Tov and the Jewish year
Study the practical laws of Yom Tov and fasting, then use Westmount's holiday collection throughout the year for Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkos, Chanukah, Purim, Pesach, Sefiras HaOmer and the Three Weeks.
Home, relationships and character
Torah must shape relationships, speech, hospitality, personal responsibility and spiritual growth. These series help ensure that conversion learning is not reduced to a checklist of laws.
Beyond the recordings
A complete course of study also includes regular Shabbos and Yom Tov attendance, meals with observant families, experience in a kosher kitchen, synagogue participation, Jewish lifecycle learning and ongoing meetings with a sponsoring rabbi. Subjects requiring private or specialized instruction are addressed personally when appropriate.
Women may also explore Rebbetzin Gail Michalowicz's classes for additional Torah learning, inspiration and personal growth.
Explore the Rebbetzin's classes ↗Personal guidance
Rabbi Yossi Michalowicz is happy to speak with sincere prospective converts, help organize an appropriate course of study and provide guidance concerning the next steps.
Email Rabbi Michalowicz →office@westmountshul.comAn important distinction
Westmount provides Torah learning, community and rabbinic guidance. Formal Orthodox conversion is completed only through a recognized Orthodox beis din under the direction of a qualified sponsoring rabbi. Completing these classes does not itself constitute conversion or guarantee acceptance into a conversion program.