The ritual of immersion in a mikveh is one of Judaism’s oldest practices. However, until recently, this powerful experience was generally off-limits to a majority of Jews. The open mikveh movement takes a welcoming and inclusive approach to ritual immersion, and encourages the full diversity of the Jewish community to discover and embrace this spiritual practice. Explore some of the many occasions for immersion here.

The Hebrew word maayanot means wellsprings, which are abundant and continual sources of water. Maayanot Community Mikveh of Minnesota will be a bountiful source of inspiration for individuals and the Jewish community.

We are currently in discussions with Sholom Community Alliance about building Maayanot in a beautiful space on the first floor of the Sholom Home East on the Shaller Campus in St. Paul. We are excited for Maayanot to be co-located on a Jewish campus that is accessible by public transportation. Read more about the site selection process.

Our goal is to open Maayanot in the fall of 2024.

Because Maayanot will serve the Jewish ritual needs of our community members, mikveh immersion is for those who are Jewish or converting to Judaism. Maayanot will welcome people of all religious backgrounds to tour the mikveh, participate in education programs, and support friends or family who are immersing.

Maayanot is committed to welcoming and meeting the needs of people of all abilities.

As examples, we plan for full wheelchair accessibility, acceptance of service animals, Braille signage, safety rails by the pool, and an aquatic lift for those who need assistance getting in and out of the water.

In a pre-immersion questionnaire, guests may indicate any special requests or accommodations needed for their immersion experience.

Maayanot will charge a modest fee for immersion, but will subsidize the fee for anyone who is unable to afford the full cost.

Maayanot will be a certified kosher mikveh under the supervision of a Rav HaMachshir, one authorized to oversee the building and operations of mikva’ot.

Traditionally, a trained Mikveh Guide acts as a witness to ensure that the immersee’s entire body, including all hair, is submerged in the water. Mikveh Guides hold a sheet above their eyes, only lowering it down at the moment of immersion to preserve the modesty of the person immersing. Maayanot will vet and train Mikveh Guides to help facilitate the ritual, providing guidance and support when appropriate.

One may choose to immerse privately or with a friend or family member acting as witness. If you are immersing for conversion, please discuss this first with your sponsoring clergy, who may have certain requirements.

A mikveh guide is a volunteer who supports your immersion experience. Mikveh guides go through a rigorous application and training process. They will explain all facets of preparation and immersion and will answer any questions you may have. In certain circumstances, with modesty as a priority, a mikveh guide may serve as a witness.

There are many ways you can contribute to help bring Maayanot to life. See our Get Involved page for details and a sign up form.