Learning from Those in the Field

The first cohort of Schusterman Rabbinical Fellows is currently participating in a retreat about life after seminary. The following is a reflection from one fellow, Michael Fel, a student at JTS:

For the past few years, I’ve spent considerable time learning rabbinic texts, perfecting my prayer leading skills and how to engage the Jewish people. While I’ve had some practical rabbinic seminars and sermon writing courses, I’ve actually never learned what rabbis do on a day to day basis. Last night, we had the chance to hear the stories of three Rabbis: Moishe Steigmann of the Westchester Jewish Center, Sari Laufer of Congregation Rodeph Sholom and Neil Tow from the Glen Rock Jewish Center. Hearing their personal stories and how they handled balancing their personal and public life, being the new rabbi and how to bring your fulll self to the pulpit will help me avoid the same pitfalls they experienced during their first years. A very worth while 2+ hour session!