This past week I was privileged to serve on an admissions committee of the Jewish Theological Seminary’s Rabbinical. As I sat and listened to these young adults interested in dedicating their life to the Jewish people, I was, quite simply, inspired. I remember very well when I first applied to rabbinical schools- the nervousness and excitement was tremendous. Years later, I continue to thank God for the privilege of waking up each morning to the gift of serving the Jewish people.
As I left the Seminary and headed home, I wondered how many members of the Torat El family are aware of the many wonderful things the Jewish Theological Seminary has to offer. As one of the flagship institutions of our movement, the Seminary does much more than just ordain Conservative Rabbis. There are programs for undergraduates and educators, an ordination program for Cantors, plus many training opportunities for Jewish communal professions and lay leadership. The Seminary is home to a world renowned Jewish library, and the JTS faculty includes some of the most prominent Jewish scholars in the world.
At last year’s commencement, the Chancellor of the Seminary, Dr. Arnold Eisen, shared an exciting and historic vision for the future of the Jewish Theological Seminary. I encourage you to append a few moments watching the video of his address: http://www.jtsa.edu/prebuilt/newvision/home.html
For some more Purim fun, and to see how the JTS Chancellor of the Seminary spends his spare time, if you did not see these yet, check out the following two links! Hag Purim Sameach! Looking forward to seeing ALL of you this weekend!
http://blogs.jta.org/telegraph/article/2011/03/07/3086314/burt-and-arnie-purim-spoof