Introducing Mark & Cinthya Nunez Our Two Newest JBC.org Contributors
An unconventional pair, Cinthya and Mark are both Jews by choice who embarked on the journey of conversion together. Although each decided to convert at separate times both began their journey in December 2006 and neither would be where they are today without the other. Raised in Southern Orange County by non-practicing Catholic parents, both never felt at home in any form of the Christian faith. It was not until their move to Los Angeles, however, when Cinthya began her studies at UCLA that the Jewish ball officially started rolling. After speaking to the UCLA Hillel Rabbi, Cinthya began an Introduction to Judaism class at the University of Judaism (now the American Jewish University). Originally accompanying Cinthya to her conversion course in a supportive capacity, Mark realized by the third session that Judaism reaffirmed what he already believed and made the decision to convert along with his now wife.
Cinthya completed the conversion process in December of 2007 while Mark is due to sit in front of the Beit Din in July 2008. Mark views the Mitzvot as binding and is currently focused on enriching his Jewish life by being a good representative of the contract he accepted the day of his Brit Milah in November 2007 (ouch!). Cinthya, although the catalyst for the conversion, has taken on observance at a slower pace, but strives to grow in that respect day by day.
In January of 2008 they celebrated in the simcha of their first-born child, Ami, and are now faced with the additional task of raising a strong and confident Jew by birth.
Together, Cinthya and Mark continue to nourish their nascent Jewish life as a married couple all the while attempting to resolve their intersecting identities as Mexican-Americans, Jews, and parents.
On behalf of everyone here at JBC.org I would like to welcome them both on board!
Avi
CHEERS (that was my anti-spam word and so apropro)!
I’m so glad that you three are now a part of JBC.ORG. I am personally happy because, knowing you in person and knowing your story, I am confident that you both have a lot to contribute to this community. Your story is, as everyone can see, quite unique and powerful.
I’m so glad we all met this year and definitely look forward to your posts and our growing friendship.
Cinthya and Mark,
Welcome to the blog! I look forward to reading thoughts and ideas from your unique perspective. It’s a pleasure to have you join us.
Shalom to you both. I am sure you’ll add a lot to the conversation!
Welcome to you both, Mark and Cinthya! I look forward to seeing posts from you in the future.
Hi everyone! We are so excited to be a part of the blog and are both looking forward to adding our thoughts and ideas in the hopes that our story will entertain and inform all those who are curious about the conversion process. Thanks for making us feel so welcome!!
-Mark and Cinthya
Hi Mark and Cinthya, and welcome! I hope you enjoy posting and getting involved in the discussions.
kol tuv,
Yair
Yay, more Jews of color! I’m always happy to welcome another Hispanic into the fold. It’s like I have my own little family within the family. Mazel tov from this Jewminicana.
Hi Mark and Cinthya–
It’s Barbara from SLC. Mark, I’ve been looking to get back in touch with you. I’m so happy to find you on this blog. And it looks like you have a beautiful new baby. Mazel Tov! Please contact me when you can. I’m so happy to see you are well. Warmly, Barbara