Rabbi Dan Betzel
(He/Him/His)
Post-Denominational

Conversion requirements
Brit milah/Hatafat dam brit:
Not required
Mikvah:
Required
Beit din:
Required (Rabbis, educators, and/or lay leaders)
Conversion location:
Columbus, Ohio
Mentoring sessions available in:
English, A different language
Conversion requirements during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
Brit milah/Hatafat dam brit:
Not required (No change)
Mikvah:
Required (Natural mikvah - A permissible body of water in Columbus, Ohio)
Beit din:
Required (Virtual beit din via video conferencing is also acceptable.)
I am happy to work with
Families with children, People who identify as LGBTQ+, People in interfaith or dual-faith relationships
Personal statement
I’m an independent, progressive, post-denominational rabbi who enjoys working with students from diverse religious, educational, and family backgrounds. I have personally experienced the beauty, meaning, and transformative power of our traditions and rituals and want to share that experience with others. I believe each of us must find their own unique connection to our tradition and create meaningful rituals to express that connection.
I became a rabbi later in life, because I love working with people and enjoy accompanying them on their journey of spiritual discovery. Before becoming a rabbi, I worked as a Jewish educator and b’nai mitzvah (coming-of-age ceremony) tutor. My role is to help others find their own unique and meaningful ways to unlock and open up our shared traditions. If we work together, I will strive to listen to your hopes, dreams, and concerns about your spiritual journey. Together we will forge a path of spiritual discovery that weaves together the customs and rituals you find most meaningful with your modern sensibilities.
In a former life, I worked as an attorney and financial advisor. I have been married for 34 years, and we have two wonderful adult children. My wife and I love to travel, read, watch great movies, and attend concerts, musicals, and lectures. Wishing you Be-Chatz-la-cha (Good luck) on your journey!
Education
Gratz College
Master of Arts, Jewish Studies
The Ohio State University – Moritz College of Law
Juris Doctorate, Law
Bowling Green State University
Master of Arts, German
Cedarville University
Bachelor of Arts, English