PhD student Laura Stein (’27) published opinion article in Jewish Telegraphic Agency
The following is an excerpt from the opinion article “We know how to prevent Jewish clergy from burning out. Why aren’t we doing it?” by PhD student Laura Stein, published on March 6, 2026. The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Boston University School of Theology, its employees, faculty, or students.
During my early years of cantorial school, I noticed a significant gap in my studies. While the coursework included extensive classes on biblical grammar, liturgy and text study, I received only surface-level training in providing pastoral care, and little attention was given to my character development, spiritual formation, or to learning to tend to my own well-being as I prepared for a career in religious leadership.
I was being taught, sure. But was I being formed? That question would later inform my understanding of clergy burnout as structural — rooted not in individual weakness, but in how seminaries are training clergy long before they enter the field.
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