Congregation Shaar Hashalom to host 'Crypto-Jews' seminar Aug. 19

Congregation Shaar Hashalom is planning a seminar on Crypto-Jews, or Conversos Jews, who lived in the 14th century in Spain on Aug. 19, according to a release.

At the time, Sephardic Jews in Spain and Portugal either willingly converted or were coerced to convert to Catholicism. Many still practiced Judaism in secret and passed on traits to their descendants today. Some of these practices include lighting candles on Friday nights, sweeping to the center of a room and not over the threshold and covering mirrors when a relative passes away.

The seminar, which will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Congregation Shaar Hashalom, will discuss the history of the Crypto-Jews and share resources for personal research. Speakers include Dr. Maria-Theresa Hernández, Bennett Greenspan, Rabbi Peter Tarlow, Dr. Ofelia Averack and Gabriela Bohm.

Cost for the seminar is $30, which includes a light breakfast and catered lunch. Preregistration is required and can be made by contacting Lori Laird at lori@lorilaird.com or by contacting Rabbi Stuart Federow at RabbiStuart@hotmail.com or 281-488-5861. Congregation Shaar Hashalom is located at 16020 El Camino Real in Houston.