The path to ministry isn’t all Torah study

I’m slowly learning that the path to ministry involves a lot more than just deep study of the Torah. One must engage in history, language, public speaking, counseling and a wealth of other skills that are not exactly the first things that leap to mind when you think of the ministry. While not exactly out of left field, like the study of say, home furniture, it has not been the intense Torah study coursework, so far, that I envisioned.

I mean, sure, they are all essential skills and highly important to a successful ministry venture; but when one mentions entering study to become some form of minister, be it a rabbi, a pastor or a messianic ministry, I think the first thing that flashes through one’s head is Torah study.

I’m beginning, at last, my advanced study coursework under Rabbi Stan and one of our first studies is focused on the history and origins of rabbinic authority. The text we’re using, Rabbi Akiba’s Messiah by Dan Gruber, is a well-researched book that at times is slightly ponderous, even though he eventually explains himself.

I’m learning a lot from the book, but I guess I’m surprised that the first book I’m cracking open in my path toward a possible ordination is by Dan Gruber, rather than Moshe.