The Pardes Pre-Rabbinic Forum
Are you thinking about becoming a rabbi, exploring rabbinic ordination, or actively preparing for rabbinical school? Pardes alumni include hundreds of rabbis serving in diverse roles – congregational leaders, educators, chaplains, and innovators in Jewish communal life – representing every denomination and stream of Jewish practice.
The Pre-Rabbinic Forum builds on this legacy, giving Beit Midrash Program students the tools, guidance, and network they need to confidently take the next step toward the rabbinate while rooted in deep and meaningful Jewish learning.
Details
The Pre-Rabbinic Forum is a special track within the Pardes Beit Midrash Program, Pardes’ flagship full-time learning experience in Jerusalem.
In the Beit Midrash Program, students of all backgrounds engage in deep, text-based learning – exploring Torah, Talmud, Halakha, and Jewish thought – through havruta (paired learning) and interactive classes.
Eligibility
This track is exclusively for students in the Pardes Beit Midrash Program who are:
- At any stage of the journey toward rabbinic ordination: from just beginning to explore the idea to preparing for rabbinical school
- Seeking mentorship, skill-building, and networking opportunities to clarify your path and prepare for your next steps
North American participants may be eligible for supplemental financial aid.
Program highlights
Group sessions
Discuss the role of a rabbi, how to choose the right rabbinical school, and how to shape your vision for the rabbinate.
Hands-on skills development
Build essential rabbinic skills: leading prayer services, delivering divrei Torah (sermons), Torah reading, and teaching.
Personalized mentorship
Receive mentoring from faculty member Rabbi Haim Shalom, former rabbinical school admissions professional.
Meetings with rabbinical school reps
Learn about different rabbinical programs and career paths directly from school representatives.
Application support
Get personalized guidance through the rabbinical school application process.
Networking with alumni
Connect with and gain valuable insights from Pardes alumni who have taken different rabbinic paths.
Take the next step
Think the Pre-Rabbinic Forum might be right for you? Request an application to the Pardes Beit Midrash Program to begin your journey.