[HANASHIR:4824] HANASHIR digest 763

[Hazzan David Sirull <Sirull...>]

It's a very sad policy. I feel like I am a perfect example of one who
studied outside of the big 4, but worked very hard to qualify for the
Cantors Assembly, and am now making a major impact on a congregation of
approximately 500 families. Yes, I was lucky to have had mentors that were
willing to help me develop, and a small congregation (less than 200
members) that tolerated me along the way. I am very certain that the
JTS/HUC/YU programs are of the highest quality, but not everyone lives in
NY or can afford and/or qualify for these programs. Those of you that are
considering the cantorate, don't ever assume that these are the only roads
to the big leagues. Unfortunately, it seems that the same rules don't apply
for rabbis. I don't understand the difference. What I'd really like to know
is the halachic premise for the exclusionary attitude. Apparently there are
rabbinical organizations that will not accept "un-schooled" rabbis, such as
the one in Las Vegas. What a pity. Their loss!

Cantor David Sirull
Charleston, SC

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