Portal to Judaism
About us
Portal al Judaísmo is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in New York, dedicated to rebuilding and strengthening Jewish identity in Latin America. Our mission stems from an urgent need: to provide a solid, halakhic, and educational structure to thousands of families—especially descendants of Bene Anusim—who seek to return to their roots.
We are not just a website; we are an active bridge to the people of Israel. We work on three fundamental pillars:
Education for the Future: We fund and operate Yeshiva Toldot Yehuda in Puebla, Mexico, the first face-to-face and virtual Jewish school with a dual program (Torah and official secular studies) designed specifically for children of families in the process of conversion or newly converted in Latin America, ensuring that the next generation is not lost.
Guide to Conversion: In partnership with the Halakhic Conversion Institute (IHC) for Latin America, and in the United States, including the Sephardic Bet Din of Mekor Jaim in Queens, led by Rabbi Eliyahu Benhaim, and the Bet Din of Queens under Rabbi Peretz Steinberg. These affiliations, based on close relationships with Rabbi David Algaze, ensure that conversions and halakhic guidance are conducted according to the highest standards of authenticity and care.
Community Connection: We unite new communities in Mexico, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and beyond, providing resources, classes and humanitarian aid under the principle of Pidyon Shevuyim (the rescue of scattered souls).
Meet the team
Our organization is guided by internationally renowned spiritual leaders and educators, dedicated to the mission of strengthening Jewish identity and providing an excellent halakhic education. Our team unites communities in New York, Mexico, Colombia, and Israel under a shared vision of integrity and commitment.
President, Portal to Judaism (New York)
R David Algaze
Spiritual leader and visionary behind our organization's global mission. Based in New York, Rabbi Algaze oversees the strategic direction and fulfillment of our mission to rescue and strengthen Jewish communities throughout Latin America.
President, Yeshiva Toldot Yehuda (Puebla, Mexico)
R Moshe Ruegsegger
Founder and director of the Yeshiva in Puebla. Rabbi Ruegsegger is the driving force behind the educational miracle that provides the children of converso families with a safe academic and spiritual home.
Director of the Torah Area, Yeshiva Toldot Yehuda (Mexico City)
R Yosef Cohen
Responsible for designing and overseeing the Torah study curriculum for the Yeshiva, ensuring that students develop a solid foundation of Jewish knowledge and values.
Vaad HaRabanim, Yeshiva Toldot Yehud (Mexico City)
R Yosef Maleh
TBD
Or BaDérej Community (Villavicencio, Colombia)
R Abraham Benhaim
Responsible for the preservation and transmission of the Sephardic legacy in the Portal to Judaism communities, Rabbi Benhaim guides returning communities in the traditions and liturgy of Spanish-Moroccan Jews, ensuring the faithful continuity of Sephardic rites for new generations.
Director of Education, Portal to Judaism (Latin America)
Yoel Quintero
In charge of educational coordination and the strategic implementation of our programs in Latin America, Yoel oversees academic quality and community integration, ensuring that the Portal's vision translates into an effective and accessible educational experience for new Jewish communities.
President, Institute for Halakhic Conversion (Israel)
R Zalman Weiss
From Israel, Rabbi Weiss oversees the educational and halakhic standards of our conversion program. His vast experience ensures that every student receives the most in-depth and authentic training available globally.
Vaad HaRabanim, Yeshiva Toldot Yehud (Mexico City)
R Shemuel Peretz
TBD
Vaad HaRabanim, Yeshiva Toldot Yehud á (Israel)
R Elisha Coffman
TBD