blog140

Demand for the Jewish chaplain is rising as hospitals embrace whole-person care. What the work involves, why it's growing, and how to train for it.

What is a cantor? More than a beautiful voice — a hazzan leads worship, guides lifecycle moments, and offers pastoral care. Explore the role and training.

From Regina Jonas to Cantor Jenn Asher: the history of women rabbis and cantors, and AJRCA's part in opening Jewish spiritual leadership to women.

Jewish ethics offers a practical guide for professional life — on speech, fairness, dignity, and repair. How ancient wisdom applies at work today.

In professional spiritual care, chaplain board certification stands as the gold standard. It shows that a chaplain has reached the highest levels of education, clinical training, and professional skill. It also opens doors to meaningful service in many settings. For aspiring and practicing chaplains, board certification is more than a milestone. Rather, it is a commitment to excellence in one…

The word "rabbi" comes from the Hebrew for "my teacher." And yet, the work of a rabbi reaches far beyond the classroom or the pulpit. Rabbis are spiritual leaders, pastoral counselors, community builders, educators, and advocates—individuals who have dedicated years of study and personal formation to the sacred responsibility of guiding a Jewish community. For those drawn to this extraordinary…

Some careers are chosen. Others choose you. For many chaplains, the path to board certified chaplaincy does not begin with a résumé or a job posting. Instead, it begins with a profound inner call. These individuals sense that their purpose lies in accompanying others through life's most tender and sacred moments. What Is Board Certified Chaplaincy? A certified chaplain is…

In an age where learning transcends physical boundaries, Jewish education has found a vibrant new home on the internet. Whether you're seeking a deeper connection to your heritage, pursuing graduate-level religious studies, or exploring Jewish spirituality for the very first time, online Judaic studies courses offer an unprecedented opportunity to engage with thousands of years of wisdom—on your own schedule,…

Understanding how to become a rabbi begins with recognizing that the journey is shaped by intellectual rigor, spiritual reflection, and communal responsibility. While many understand the title, fewer appreciate the depth of preparation required to assume rabbinic leadership with distinction. Clarifying the Calling The first step toward the rabbinate is discernment. Prospective students must reflect deeply on their motivations, values,…

For individuals drawn to spiritual care in clinical or institutional settings, Jewish chaplaincy offers a meaningful vocation—and board certification represents an important milestone. It signals readiness to serve with professionalism, accountability, and depth. Understanding Board Certification Board certification is a formal recognition granted by professional chaplaincy organizations. It confirms that a candidate has met the educational, clinical, and ethical standards…