What are the GPS standards for conversion of an adopted child?
Conversion of an adopted child is based on the premise that it is a zechut (benefit) for that child to convert. While some have argued that simply becoming Jewish is a zechut, the consensus opinion in rabbinic literature is that it is a zechut to convert an underage person only in circumstances where observance of mitzvot is likely to be part of the child’s life as an adult. Therefore, adoptive parents who wish to convert a child must: 1) Both be Jewish 2) Belong to an Orthodox synagogue within walking distance of their home. 3) Commit to 12 years of Orthodox day school education for that child. 4) Live an observant lifestyle that includes Shabbat, Kashrut, holidays etc.
