Who we are
We are a group of Rabbis from various denominations (Conservative, Reform and Renewal) seeking those interested in a spiritually meaningful non-denominational conversion.
Our course is led by Rabbi Dennis Katz. Rabbi Katz has served as Rabbi of Congregation Shaare Tikvah B'nai Zion since 2000. A graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, after an Orthodox ordination Rabbi Katz chose a career in the business world rather than becoming a clergyman. After retiring he chose to enter the world of the professional Rabbinate and has been with Congregation Shaare Tikvah B'nai Zion ever since.
Rabbi Katz is a dedicated Jewish leader both locally and nationally. He is a founder and Director of the Chicago Campership Program, an organization insuring that Jewish youngsters are able to attend over-night Jewish camps. He is also President of the American Jewish Experience, a non-denominational outreach organization that provides Jewish religious and cultural enrichment to non-affiliated Jews.
Rabbi Katz's passion is teaching. During the course of the year, he teaches several adult classes at STBZ, as well as lecturing at various other institutions as Scholar in Residence. Although not an expert, he has a long standing interest in the Dead Sea Scrolls and lectures often on its significance and meaning.