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From Our Congregants - Home
Marty Teal D'Var Torah Men's Club Shabbat Service - April, 2008
Phyllis Savin D'Var Torah - March, 2008
Keith Liker D'Var Torah - February, 2008
Matthew Shugart Conversion Speech - May 23, 2007
Freda Heller D'Var Torah - June 9, 2007
Natalie Diamond D'Var Torah - February 2007
Keith Liker D'Var Torah - January 2007
Karina Liker's Bat Mitzvah Speech on Mezuzot
Mary Lou Criqui's Conversion Speech
Mary Klein Conversion Speech - April 1, 2006


Mary Lou Criqui's Conversion Speech - 16 Heshvan 5767

I first came to Temple Adat Shalom for education and knowledge through the introduction to Judaism classes. Having always been interested in Judaism, this provided an opportunity to learn more about this beautiful way of life, faith and culture. There was no intention of converting, until I came to my first Shabbat. I arrived early to meditate and went into the sanctuary. It was totally quiet and I was alone, or so I thought. The lights were dim; I studied the tapestries, and was drawn to the Ner Tamid. I could not take my eyes off of this glorious glow, nor stop thinking of its deep significance. My soul awoke in a profound way as never before. Adonai said, “So, you think we’ve had this arrangement for these last 40 years, where you believe in, trust in, and pray to your God? Well, guess what? I am penetrating your soul deeper than you ever thought was possible. I am taking that little burning pilot light inside of you and turning it into a blaze. You belong here, you are meant to be a Jew, and this is your spiritual home. You are mine. I am your God.” After taking in a few swallows of air, blinking my eyes and remembering to breathe, the significance of what just occurred was the genesis of an incredible transformation. All these years there had never been an intended quest or journey, but instead, on that beautiful Shabbat morning, I found my destination. This conversion represents the beginning of the beginning of a new quest, a profound journey.

Why become a Jew? It is the original religion. It is the living religion. It is the best way of life. Our people have been enslaved, scattered about, persecuted and have suffered for thousands of years, with no country or infrastructure. Yet we remain a strong and proud people, especially in times of trouble and perils, always remembering our identity. To be a Jew is the most meaningful way by which we keep the strongest connection to Adonai and maintain our deep, spiritual, life-long study of Torah. Being a Jew keeps our connections strong and reminds us of our commitments. Being a Jew is the heart and soul of life. The two most significant life-changing, profound decisions I have made are that of choosing a life partner and knowing when to leave my 30 year career. Now there is a third: becoming a Jew.

I am enlightened by the warmth and welcome of our community. When we exchange greetings of “Shalom”, we immediately know we are in the presence of a friend; we are safe; we have common bonds. I look forward to the Shabbat services. When we discuss the weekly Torah/Haftorah portions, there is a study of the content and structure of the scriptures, often followed by a lively discussion and questioning on how to apply this to our modern day. This is an incredible way to end the week and start anew, to apply what was written thousands of years ago to our present way of life. Our songs and prayers are uplifting and joyous.

By attending weekly Shabbat and daily Torah study, I am maintaining my Jewish connections. I am studying Hebrew. Our holidays, celebrations and observances enrich my life and home. I am a member of our Sisterhood and a life-long supporter of Hadassah. I live life by action and not creed, always with the unity of God. I embrace the covenant.

Thank you, Rabbi Malino, Rabbi Prinz and Rabbi Mark, for all of the support, education and continued learning these past 15 months. Cantor Frank, you are a true gift and inspiration.

B’ Shalom

Mary Lou