‘I’ve finally found God without all the extras’: behind the surge in people converting to Progressive Judaism
I ve finally found God without – Progressive Judaism has seen a notable increase in new adherents, with figures showing a significant jump in adult conversions since 2020. This shift has sparked conversations about what draws individuals to the faith, especially in a time marked by rising antisemitism. Among those embracing the movement is Elizabeth Arif-Fear, a 37-year-old interfaith activist whose journey through religions led her to Judaism. Her path began in Christianity, then moved to Islam for 14 years, before she realized that neither fully aligned with her spiritual needs. “It was just a journey over time,” she explains, reflecting on how Judaism offered her a sense of clarity and simplicity.
Arif-Fear’s experience is emblematic of a broader trend. According to data shared with the Guardian, adult conversions in Britain rose from 78 in 2020 to 183 in 2025. Rabbi Jonathan Romain, convener of the Reform Beit Din and former rabbi of Maidenhead synagogue, attributes this growth to three key factors: the aftermath of the pandemic, the expansion of religious education in schools, and the popularity of DNA testing. “We’ve found several times people have said to me, ‘Somebody gave me a DNA test as a Christmas present and it turned out I was Jewish,’” he notes. While some may view DNA results as mere information, others find them deeply meaningful, sparking a reevaluation of their heritage and faith.
The Cultural and Philosophical Appeal
For Arif-Fear, the decision to convert to Judaism was driven by its progressive nature and emphasis on intellectual engagement. She describes the movement’s openness to diverse beliefs as a major draw. “What really inspired me was the diversity and pluralism in it,” she says. “I learned that you could be atheist and Jewish, and then there were Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, Liberal, and that was really intriguing and inspiring for me.” This inclusivity, she adds, creates a welcoming environment where questioning is not only accepted but encouraged. “It’s LGBT-friendly, there are female rabbis, all of that,” she explains. “People that were really proud of their faith but also felt very British at the same time.”
Romain highlights the changing demographics of converts, noting that the community is now more reflective of Britain’s multicultural identity. “Whereas beforehand it was largely white British, now because Britain is so multicultural, it’s very common to have people, who may have come from Romania or Portugal or Korea,” he says. This diversity, he argues, has broadened the appeal of Progressive Judaism, making it accessible to those from varied cultural and religious backgrounds.
The movement’s flexibility also resonates with individuals seeking a faith that aligns with their personal values. For example, Debbie Collings, 65, found herself drawn back to Judaism after caring for her ill father, who inquired about the graves of his great-grandparents. Collings, who was raised Jewish until the age of 16, had since left the faith. But the sight of the overgrown gravesites on a rainy day stirred a profound sense of connection. “I just stood and looked at the graves and I went, ‘Oh my God,’” she recalls. The graves of her ancestors, who fled pogroms in Russia, became a symbol of her heritage and the legacy of her family’s contributions to Britain.
Collings spent a year in classes exploring Judaism and its community before undergoing an interview with Romain and other rabbinic judges. The process confirmed her Jewish identity, leading to a renewed sense of belonging. “I go in there and for me it’s like this peace just comes over me,” she says. “And it sort of fills a big gap that I didn’t really realize was missing until I started to explore it again.” The emotional weight of her return to the synagogue underscores the role of heritage and continuity in attracting converts.
Amanda, who chose to remain anonymous, also found her path to Judaism through a different lens. Raised in a Christian household and a devout follower of the gospel, she began to question aspects of her faith, particularly the New Testament. “I often heard adults who converted to Christianity say, ‘I felt full of the Holy Spirit,’” she says. “But when I converted to Judaism, I didn’t feel that.” Instead, she felt a deeper, more tangible connection to the traditions and values of the Jewish community.
The rise in conversions reflects a broader spiritual reawakening among individuals who feel disconnected from other faiths. For some, the pandemic acted as a catalyst, forcing introspection and a reassessment of their beliefs. For others, the expansion of religious education in schools introduced them to Judaism’s teachings and practices, sparking curiosity. Romain suggests that these factors have combined to create an environment where people are more open to exploring their roots or embracing a new faith.
Progressive Judaism’s emphasis on inclusivity and dialogue has also made it a preferred choice for many. The movement’s ability to accommodate atheists, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those from different cultural backgrounds sets it apart from more traditional forms of Judaism. This adaptability has helped attract a new generation of adherents who value personal interpretation and community support. “It’s not just about rituals or scripture,” Romain adds. “It’s about a way of life that’s inclusive and evolving.”
As the numbers continue to climb, the movement’s leaders suggest that this surge is a response to both internal and external pressures. The challenges of antisemitism have not deterred people from identifying with the Jewish community; instead, they have reinforced its significance. For those converting or returning, Judaism offers a space where faith and identity can coexist, and where questions are met with openness rather than judgment. “If I die tomorrow, I know I can be buried in a Jewish cemetery,” Collings says, capturing the sentiment of many who see their conversion as a lifelong commitment to their heritage.
This trend signals a growing recognition of Judaism’s relevance in a rapidly changing world. Whether through personal exploration, cultural connection, or a desire for inclusivity, the reasons behind the surge are as varied as the individuals themselves. As Progressive Judaism continues to evolve, it remains a vital force in attracting those seeking a faith that aligns with their values and aspirations.
