The new giyur bill sponsored by MK (The Movement) Elazar Stern seeks to facilitate the giyur process for conversion candidates. http://www.theyeshivaworld.com/news/headlines-breaking-stories/209520/knesset-committee-discusses-sterns-giyur-bill.html Ramat Gan Chief Rabbi and prominent dati leumi posek Rabbi Yaakov Ariel Shlita opposes the bill, warning if it passes into law �it will make a mockery of giyur�.

Rav Ariel expressed harsh criticism, adding that while the Tzohar Rabbonim organization is involved in kiruv and outreach, its backing for this giyur bill is unacceptable. �Tzohar is making a serious error by involving itself in Halachic matters such as this� Rav Ariel added.

Rabbi Ariel was quite outspoken in his opposition, sending a clear message to members of the Bayit Yehudi party, warning of the dangers that will result from the passage of the bill. Rabbi Ariel feels the bill is �superfluous and it will not achieve any positive change�, explaining that there may be a need for improvement and increased efficiency but this bill does not depict an acceptable alternative.

Deputy Minister of Religious Services Rabbi Eli Ben-Dahan wants Stern to coordinate with Rishon L�Tzion Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef and obtain the chief rabbi�s approval for the bill, but it is highly unlikely that Stern will be acting on this suggestion.

(YWN � Israel Desk, Jerusalem)