The Conference of European Rabbis (CER) is dedicated to fostering vibrant Jewish life across Europe through various initiatives. Community rabbis often require expert assistance in multiple areas to provide comprehensive religious services to their congregations. To meet these needs, the CER has established specialised departments, each led by seasoned professionals with extensive knowledge of European Jewish communities.

Mikveh Department Mohel Department Kashrut Department Stam Department Eruvin Department Jewish Status Verification Department CER Membership Card Community Service Package

Mikveh Department

Considering the many requests made by community rabbis, the Executive of the Conference of European Rabbis decided to renew the Information Bureau's activity on the Mikveh site.

The Mikveh, a cornerstone of the sanctity of the people of Israel, holds a profound historical significance. Since time immemorial, our people have upheld the laws of Mikvehs with meticulous care, underscoring its enduring importance and invoking a sense of reverence and respect in the community rabbis and members.

The Mishna in Tractate Yoma: “Rabbi Akiva said, Blessed are you, Israel, before whom you purify, and who purifies you, Your Father in heaven, etc., and says Mikveh Yisrael Hashem what purifies the impure even the Holy One purifies Israel”

Some ask: Why did Chazal imagine the purity of Israel as a Mikveh and not as a spring? Is the spring purifying more than one degree from a Mikvah? We answer that the division between the spring and the Mikveh is that the spring is made by Heaven, the Mikveh is done by man, and the water comes from heaven. This indicates that man's preoccupation with Israel's purity is given into his hands; it is a holy obligation to sanctify and take care of the building of Mikvehs, from which holiness comes forth to Yisrael.

For generations, community rabbis worldwide have been at the forefront of the Mikveh's importance, dedicating themselves to building and supervising its observance. Their continuous and unwavering efforts to add upgrades and regulations to satisfy all opinions are crucial in ensuring the wholeness and correction of the Purity of Yisrael, making them an integral part of this sacred process.

Today, community rabbis' sacred duty is to be vigilant in the construction and maintenance of Mikvehs. Whether building a new one, renovating an existing one, or ensuring ongoing maintenance, community rabbis are at the forefront. Their involvement in the development of methods, construction, and the introduction of new materials is a testament to their great practical knowledge and responsibility in this field. Even in the old Mikveh, built long ago, the need for occasional repairs and renovations is a reality. We understand that these tasks require supervision and practical technical knowledge, and we want to reassure you that we are here to support you in these endeavours, ensuring you can carry out your duties with confidence and reassurance.

The Mikveh Department of the Conference of European Rabbis stands ready to support community rabbis in their sacred mission. Offering professional services in ritual baths based on the extensive experience of dozens of Mikvehs throughout Europe and hundreds of ritual baths in the USA, the Department is a valuable resource for all community rabbis.

The department cooperates with the Centre for Family Purity in the United States in consultation with the leading authorities in Mikvehs.

AVAILABLE SERVICES

  • Examining the possibility of building a new Mikveh.
  • Initial planning and preparation of a fundraising proposal
  • Detailed planning of the new Mikveh.
  • Examination of plans of the local architects for all stages of construction.
  • Accompanying the construction of the Mikveh, including supervision of all stages of building.
  • Examination of an existing Mikveh and guidance for renovation and halakhic upgrading.
  • Conducting training sessions for women working in the Mikveh.

2024 ACHIEVEMENTS

  • Final examination and inauguration of a new Mikveh in Yaroslavl, Russia.
  • Supervise the construction of the new Mikveh in Vitebsk – Belarus.
  • Final examination and inauguration of a new Mikveh in Pyatigorsk, Russia.
  • Examination of the old Mikveh in Minsk and a preliminary plan for renovating the Mikvah.
  • Initial planning for a Mikveh in Antwerp – Belgium.
  • Accompanying the construction of the new Mikveh in Kaunas, Lithuania.
  • Planning a new Mikveh in Izmir, Turkey.
  • Supervise and consult for the restoration of the old Mikveh in Wroclaw, Poland.
  • Luxembourg, Luxembourg.
  • Vilnius (Vilna), Lithuania.
  • Mannheim, Germany.
  • Minsk, Belarus.
  • Bucharest, Romania.

We turn to the community rabbis to avail themselves of the Department of Mikveh of the Conference of European Rabbis services.

For all your requests, please contact us: ostashinsky@rabbiscer.org

Mohel Department

The CER’s Mohel Department is committed to ensuring that every Jewish male can have a Brit Milah performed by a qualified and G-d fearing mohel while maintaining the highest medical standards.

In the past decade, various European entities have increasingly attempted to restrict or ban circumcision. In response to these challenges, the CER established the Union of Mohalim in Europe (UME) in 2013.

In the past decade, various European entities have increasingly attempted to restrict or ban circumcision. In response to these challenges, the CER established the Union of Mohalim in Europe (UME) in 2013.

UME Goals

  • Maintain high medical and halachic standards for circumcision in Europe.
  • Provide professional training and logistical support to Mohalim in Europe.
  • Offer legal information to those travelling for circumcisions within Europe.
  • Assist with the placement of Mohalim in Europe, particularly in remote areas and communities lacking local Mohalim.

Our Mohel Department also promotes public awareness of the importance of performing circumcision according to halacha and high medical standards. In cases requiring special assistance, the department provides circumcision services swiftly and free of charge upon the community rabbi's request.

Contact: ostashinsky@rabbiscer.org

Kashrut Department

The CER is dedicated to ensuring that kosher food is both accessible and affordable across Europe while also addressing the needs of communities that lack established kosher certification bodies.

The CER is dedicated to ensuring that kosher food is both accessible and affordable across Europe while also addressing the needs of communities that lack established kosher certification bodies.

Please note that the supervision and level of kashrut in these lists are solely the responsibility of the local rabbinates. The CER does not imply endorsement or recommendation of any products or services listed.

Belarus

x

Kosherfood

France

x

Paris

Spain

x

Madrid

Norway

x

Oslo

Stam Department

The CER's STAM Department offers expert consultation and services for inspecting Torah scrolls, Tefillin and Mezuzot.

In the past decade, various European entities have increasingly attempted to restrict or ban circumcision. In response to these challenges, the CER established the Union of Mohalim in Europe (UME) in 2013.

In the past decade, various European entities have increasingly attempted to restrict or ban circumcision. In response to these challenges, the CER established the Union of Mohalim in Europe (UME) in 2013.

KEY SERVICES

Pre-purchase Consultation for Torah Scrolls – Free via Email:

  • Quality inspection of writing.
  • Contract assistance with the scribe.
  • Halachic guidance on Torah scrolls faults.

Torah Scroll Services – Via Email, at €95:

  • Initial assessment of the Torah scroll’s condition: origin, age, and quality of writing.
  • Electronic registration and coding for theft and forgery prevention.
  • Issuance of ownership certificates for Torah scroll owners.

Torah Scroll Inspection – On-site Visit at €190:

  • Comprehensive Torah scroll inspection, valuation, coding, issuance of ownership certificates and repair cost estimates (minor repairs included in the visit cost).
  • Optional mezuzah inspections at €8 per mezuzah during the visit.
  • Inspection costs exclude travel, accommodation, and kosher food expenses.

Contact: aostashinsky@rabbiscer.org

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Community Service Package

With its wealth of expertise, the CER has developed the Community Service Package to assist rabbis and communities in managing all essential services with high halachic standards. This package, supported by our team of experts, is offered at a reasonable cost. Communities receive critical services through a fixed monthly payment, including mikveh inspections, STAM inspections, and Jewish status verification. Additionally, we offer a modular package option that includes various supplementary community services such as guest lecturers, certified mohel services and more. CER Launches Groundbreaking “Community Package” to Support Jewish Communities Across Europe The CER’s “Community Package” includes a detailed inspection of Mikveh every three years, complete with a comprehensive report and a self-check testing kit for water compliance, as well as consultation, halachic advice, and a port of call to answer any halachic questions that may arise. The package also includes expert, routine checking of Torah scrolls and their electronic registration to help prevent theft and forgery. It also acts as a liaison with sofrim (Torah scribes) should a new Torah scroll need to be written. Additionally, the package offers unlimited access to Birur Yahadut (Jewish Status Determination), which manages inquiries and provides expert rabbinic opinions regarding complex cases. Participation in the Community Package requires a commitment to a three-year membership at a monthly fee of €75. This package can be tailored to suit the specific needs of each community. For example, if a community already employs a local Sofer Stam, they can substitute this service with alternatives such as Torah classes, lectures by prominent speakers, or Brit Milah services in remote areas. This package initiative is particularly crucial for smaller communities that might otherwise struggle to maintain these essential religious services themselves. It represents the Conference of European Rabbis' (CER) steadfast commitment to establishing a rigorous, unified halachic and professional standard led and supported by a team of rabbis and experts. Chief Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt, President of the Conference of European Rabbis (CER), stated: “Our Community Package Initiative represents a significant leap forward in our commitment to supporting Jewish communities across Europe. By making these vital services available to even the smallest and most remote communities, we ensure that every Jewish community has the resources to sustain its religious practices and traditions.” Registration Form: https://forms.gle/hu8NmdpV3EqamsDH6 Contact: ostashinsky@rabbiscer.org

Head of Rabbinic and Community Development Division: Rabbi Aharon Shmuel Baskin abaskin@rabbiscer.org
Director of Religious Services Department: Rabbi Amir Ostashinsky aostashinsky@rabbiscer.org
Director of Men’s Programmes: Rabbi David Basok dbasok@rabbiscer.org
Director of Women’s Programmes: Mrs. Danielle Chaimovitz-Basok dchaimovitz@rabbiscer.org

Courses, Programmes & Seminars for Rabbis, Rebbetzins & Community Leaders

The CER is committed to enhancing European Jewish communities by nurturing their physical infrastructure and developing the individuals who lead Jewish communal life. We believe that strengthening community leadership requires a blend of Torah study, connection with Torah scholars, professional training and cultivating a strong network of leaders for mutual learning and support. The Division for the Development of Rabbis and Communities is devoted to supporting rabbis in their continuous learning and growth throughout their tenure. We offer a variety of courses and training programmes specifically designed for European rabbis. These programmes, led by senior rabbis and expert professionals, are tailored to meet their unique needs. Moreover, the CER recognises and values the vital role of community rebbetzins, offering them professional training in various fields. We also provide courses on diverse topics for other community role-holders, equipping them with the essential knowledge and tools to excel in their roles.

  • Seminars
  • Programmes
  • Courses
  • Community Resilience Seminar
  • Advanced Kashrut Seminar
  • Community Safeguarding Seminar
  • Mediation and Shalom Bayit Seminar
  • Coaching Workshops

Community Resilience Seminar

Resilience refers to the ability to cope positively with stress and crises, adapt successfully to life circumstances, maintain functional competence, and recover from difficult situations. In the wake of increasingly complex contemporary challenges, we are recognising the importance of both personal and communal resilience and the crucial role of rabbinic leadership in developing these essential capacities within the community. The CER conducts seminars to develop community resilience, guided by experts from the International Resilience Centre. Participants in these seminars will receive professional tools for crisis management within the community and for developing personal and communal resilience. The seminar addresses issues such as managing personal and community stress, building personal, communal, and organisational resilience frameworks, creating internal support systems and addressing current challenges in the wake of recent events.

Advanced Kashrut Seminar

Kashrut supervision in industrial plants requires extensive halachic knowledge and a deep understanding of the industrial world. Often, kashrut supervision in industrial settings raises issues irrelevant to domestic or communal kitchens. In a designated course led by kashrut experts in Europe, we invite rabbis to join the kashrut network of the CER as industrial kashrut supervisors. Participants in the course will study recent halachic rulings based on past and present leading halachic authorities. They will explore the role of the rabbi as a supervisor for a regulated kashrut body and visit factories to gain firsthand knowledge of the production processes and raw materials used in the food industry.

Community Safeguarding Seminar

The rabbi and rebbetzin of a community play a critical role across a wide range of areas. Their role combines religious and communal leadership with shaping the social and moral atmosphere of the community. To ensure the community remains a safe and protected environment, especially for children and youth, we must employ a variety of prevention and intervention methods. In a specifically designed training for rabbis and rebbetzins in European communities, we will learn how to strengthen safeguarding practices and prevent harm. The training will cover topics such as:

  • Barriers and attitudes towards abuse
  • Abuse types: physical, emotional, sexual and neglect
  • Trauma and its impact on children
  • How to speak with children suspected of being harmed
  • Methods for preventing abuse
  • Discussions on healthy sexuality
  • Tools for creating a safe environment in the community and educational settings

The training is conducted in collaboration with 'Haruv Institute' and subsidised by the CER. The programme includes Zoom sessions and a joint in-person seminar

Mediation and Shalom Bayit Seminar

In the Mediation and Shalom Bayit Seminar, participants will acquire the knowledge and tools needed to listen and provide counsel in tension and conflict between couples or community members. Throughout the seminar, participants will explore various effective methods for conducting respectful dialogue, bridging gaps and finding solutions in times of crisis. This seminar is designed for rabbis and rebbetzins and includes simulations and hands-on experiences guided by relationship experts and seasoned mediators.

Coaching Workshops

Community rabbis and rebbetzins dedicate their energy and efforts to serving their congregants, often at a significant personal and familial cost. The physical and mental burdens they carry frequently require them to also attend to their own well-being. Recognising this reality, we offer specialised workshops on personal coaching for rabbis and rebbetzins. In these workshops, participants engage in individual and group processes under the guidance of experienced coaches. The workshops focus on strengthening personal, marital, and familial relationships, aiming to enhance the well-being of rabbis and rebbetzins and enable them to be a stronger source of support for their community members.

  • Rabbinic Leadership Training Programme
  • Senior Rabbis Programme
  • The Ambassador Team
  • Europe Shidduchim Project
  • Rebbetzin Development Programme
  • Rebbetzin Development Programme
  • Online Kodesh Studies Programme for Rabbis' Children

Rabbinic Leadership Training Programme

Community rabbis in Europe face mounting challenges. The growing disconnection from Jewish heritage, assimilation, antisemitism, and various social and economic pressures combine to create a complex environment for community leaders. Effectively navigating these demands requires responses rooted in prudence and courage, guided by deep faith and a commitment to Torah values. Recognizing the vital need to equip community leaders with practical tools and skills, we have developed the Rabbinic Leadership Training Programme for European communities. This programme focuses on empowerment, personal growth, and skill development to enhance rabbis' abilities to act, impact and inspire positive change within their communities. Experienced rabbis and professionals oversee the programme, providing participants with personalised guidance throughout and after the course.

The programme encompasses three key elements:
  • Training in Halachic and Torah Subjects: This will cover topics such as institutional Kashrut, mikvehs, Jewish status verification, STAM, Eruvin, Chuppah, and Kiddushin. The programme will also include a Q&A session with Dayanim near the High Holidays.
  • Professional Development: Training in rhetoric, teamwork, community building, fundraising, project management, media relations and social media.
  • Personal and Community Development: Creating a vision, setting goals for the rabbi and the community, and participating in a mentoring programme with senior CER rabbis.

Participants will join a well-established rabbinic network, fostering meaningful connections and collaborations across Europe.
The year-long programme includes weekly three-hour Zoom sessions and several seminars.
It is tailored for rabbis serving in communal and educational roles in Europe, and admission is subject to an interview process.
As of 2024, three cycles have been completed, with approximately eighty rabbis participating.

Senior Rabbis Programme

Community rabbis engage in a wide range of activities. Aside from providing spiritual leadership, halachic rulings and leading the synagogue, rabbis often serve as a source of advice and support in many's personal and family lives.
Furthermore, they are frequently tasked with initiating, organizing, and managing community projects.
Over time, many rabbis gain invaluable experience but may also face burnout and increasing challenges despite being pillars of support for others.
The Senior Rabbis Programme aims to build the next generation of leading rabbis in Europe. It focuses on personal development, professional content, and expert guidance.
This programme brings together a supportive group of experienced rabbis committed to continuous growth.
The year-long programme includes a weekly half-day Zoom study session and a monthly in-person study day and workshop.
To apply, send email to: dbasok@rabbiscer.org

The Ambassador Team

How to combat antisemitism? Various governments and organisations combat antisemitic symptoms by taking measures against violence and expressions of hatred. We choose to tackle the root of the problem by focusing on education, dialogue and public awareness. As part of this effort, we have established the Ambassador Team of the Conference of European Rabbis.

  • The goal of this initiative is to offer the public an opportunity to learn about Jews and Judaism through direct and personal interactions.
  • Our Ambassadors will engage in face-to-face meetings with diverse audiences, fostering understanding through open dialogue, attentive listening, and insightful answers to questions.
  • We seek individuals with extensive Torah knowledge, a broad general education and exceptional interpersonal communication skills. Ideal candidates should be adept at engaging non-Jewish audiences in meaningful conversations and be able to commit to at least one meeting per month.
  • Participation requires attendance at a training seminar. We are currently seeking native speakers of German, French or Italian.

Europe Shidduchim Project

Establishing a Jewish home presents a significant challenge for many communities. Various efforts have been made in this area through local matchmakers, targeted events for singles and a range of dating websites, which may not necessarily meet the needs of every community or sector. To address this, the CER has set up an international matchmaking network designed to assist Jewish individuals and families across Europe. This network integrates personal interactions with local representatives who are familiar with the candidates and a computerised system that displays information across all representatives. The new website, available in four languages, enables users to enter candidate details and search for suitable matches. We believe that this initiative is crucial for the future of our communities and will significantly contribute to strengthening European Jewry. Recognising the importance of this project, the CER and participating communities will jointly fund the activities of the local coordinators. Representatives will receive comprehensive training in using the website and participate in matchmaking-focused workshops. To register as local representatives: https://forms.gle/GAUKsM6w5L5PSQdC7

Rebbetzin Development Programme

The Rebbetzin Development Programme is a key initiative within the CER Rebbetzin Department, dedicated to empowering rebbetzins and recognising their essential role in community leadership. Over the course of a year, participants engage with enriching content designed to enhance their spiritual, professional and social dimensions. The programme also provides access to a supportive network, benefiting both the rebbetzins and their communities. The programme is led by Rebbetzin Yemima Mizrachi, with content delivered by Rebbetzins Ilana Epstein and Gitty Spitz. So far, over forty rebbetzins across various communities have participated in it. A new cohort of Russian-speaking rebbetzins will commence in the summer of 2024.
Programme Coordinator: Mrs. Danielle Chaimovitz-Basok dchaimovitz@rabbiscer.org

Rebbetzin Development Programme

The Rebbetzin Development Programme is a key initiative within the CER Rebbetzin Department, dedicated to empowering rebbetzins and recognising their essential role in community leadership. Over the course of a year, participants engage with enriching content designed to enhance their spiritual, professional, and social dimensions. The programme also provides access to a supportive network, benefiting both the rebbetzins and their communities. The programme is led by Rebbetzin Yemima Mizrachi, with content delivered by Rebbetzins Ilana Epstein and Gitty Spitz. So far, over forty rebbetzins across various communities have participated in it. A new cohort of Russian-speaking rebbetzins will commence in the summer of 2024.
Programme Coordinator: Mrs. Danielle Chaimovitz-Basok dchaimovitz@rabbiscer.org

Online Kodesh Studies Programme for Rabbis' Children

One key challenge facing rabbinic families in Europe is the chinuch of their children. In many European communities, there remains a lack of educational programmes tailored to the needs of families committed to Torah and mitzvot. The CER is pleased to announce the launch of an online Kodesh studies programme. Classes will be held weekly throughout the school year in small groups of students of the same age who speak a common language. The CER will subsidize the programme.
Contact: Danielle Chaimovitz-Basok dchaimovitz@rabbiscer.org

  • Kashrut Course
  • Chuppah and Kiddushin Course
  • Chevra Kadisha Training Course
  • Mikveh Attendant Training
  • STAM Writing Course
  • Mediation and Conflict Resolution Course
  • Fundraising / Campaign Management Course
  • Community Building Course

Kashrut Course

This course is offered in collaboration with the Chief Rabbinate of Israel and the Kosharot Institute, which specialises in the laws of kashrut and promotes public awareness of kashrut. The course focuses on kashrut issues relevant to community kitchens and restaurants and is designed for community rabbis and kashrut supervisors working in public kitchens abroad. Held weekly via Zoom for over four months, the course currently hosts around eighty participants. It is conducted in three languages: Hebrew, English and Russian.

Chuppah and Kiddushin Course

This comprehensive course is led by the International Halacha Institute (IHI) in collaboration with the Olami organisation. It covers the laws of Chuppah and Kiddushin, along with related topics and combines self-study with Zoom sessions over the course of a year. Rabbis who pass the exams will be qualified to conduct Chuppah ceremonies under senior rabbinic supervision and receive a Chuppah and Kiddushin officiation certificate. CER members are eligible for a significant discount on course fees.

Chevra Kadisha Training Course

Community volunteers often perform the sacred duties of the Chevra Kadisha. It is essential to deeply understand local customs and the laws and practices related to purification and burial. This training programme is designed for rabbis and members of the Chevra Kadisha across various communities. It is offered in partnership with the Ministry of Religious Services and facilitated by Chevra Kadisha experts from Israel.

Mikveh Attendant Training Course

This course is designed to train rebbetzins and other female community members to become certified mikveh attendants. The programme covers the halachic and practical aspects of the mikveh and immersion process. During immersion, participants will be trained to identify and handle sensitive situations related to women’s physical and mental health. The course is conducted in English and Hebrew and is offered in collaboration with the Ministry of Religious Services and the Eden Institute. Graduates who pass the final exam will receive a mikveh attendant certification.

STAM Writing Course

The intricate art of STAM writing— encompassing Sifrei Torah, Tefillin and Mezuzot—is a meticulous craft that demands skill and expertise. Rabbis are often tasked with inspecting Torah Scrolls and Mezuzot, making mastery of this craft a valuable asset. Rabbis interested in acquiring this expertise can enroll in a comprehensive ten-month course in STAM writing. Led by seasoned specialists from the International Halacha Institute (IHI), the course covers the essential theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for the profession. The CER offers partial financial support to its members for course fees.

Mediation and Conflict Resolution Course

Promoting peace among individuals and couples is a vital challenge rabbis and community leaders face. The Mediation and Conflict Resolution Course, specifically tailored for community rabbis, equips participants with the knowledge and tools needed to mediate disputes, lead their communities wisely, and effectively prevent conflicts. The four-month course is led by mediation experts recognized by the Israeli Ministry of Justice. The CER offers partial subsidies for members participating in this course.

Fundraising / Campaign Management Course

Promoting peace among individuals and couples is a vital challenge rabbis and community leaders face. The Mediation and Conflict Resolution Course, specifically tailored for community rabbis, equips participants with the knowledge and tools needed to mediate disputes, lead their communities wisely, and effectively prevent conflicts. The four-month course is led by mediation experts recognized by the Israeli Ministry of Justice. The CER offers partial subsidies for members participating in this course.

Community Building Course

A community rabbi serves as a halachic authority and religious leader and a spiritual and social guide for community members and their families. This role involves nurturing relationships, attracting new members, and promoting active participation. The Community Building Course addresses these essential aspects. This course is led by rabbis and lecturers from the '??? ?? ??' Institute, which has supported community rabbis for thirty years. Specifically designed for European community rabbis, it consists of fifteen Zoom sessions for rabbis and rebbetzins.

$

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