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HTG’S CONSTITUTION TO FORMALLY ORDAIN

MESSIANIC MINISTERS

WE OFFER – YOU CHOOSE

PROFESSOR WA LIEBENBERG

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HTG’S CONSTITUTION TO FORMALLY ORDAIN

MESSIANIC MINISTERS

By

Professor WA Liebenberg

Proofread by: Lynette Schaefer

All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced or copied.

Distributed by: Hebraic Roots Teaching Institute

Pretoria – South Africa Email: products@hrti.co.za Mobile: +27 (0)83 273 1144

Facebook Page: "Hebraic Roots Teaching Institute"

Website: http://www.hrti.co.za

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Preface

YHWH "God" has called us to do two things. First, we are never to give up studying and seeking the correct interpretation of any given Bible passage. Second, such opportunities are golden moments for us to learn to show grace and love to others whose understanding of a given passage may differ from ours.

Throughout the HRTI‘s teachings, we use a slightly different vocabulary to that which some might be accustomed. We have chosen to use what many refer to as a Messianic vocabulary. The reasons being: firstly, using Hebraic-sounding words is another way to help you associate with the Hebraic Roots of your faith. Secondly, these words are not merely an outward show for us – they are truly an expression of who we are as Messianic Jews and non-Jews who have "taken hold" of our inheritance with Israel.

Instead of saying "Jesus", we call our Saviour "Y‘shua" – the way His parents would have addressed Him in Hebrew. In addition, rather than referring to Y‘shua as "Christ", we use the word "Messiah" – which is an Anglicized version of the Hebrew word, Moshiach.

"YaHoWaH" is the name of God in Hebrew, where it is written as four consonants (YHWH or YHVH, as the W and V is derived from the same Hebrew letter ‗Vaw‘). These four letters are called the Tetragrammaton (Greek for "[a word] having four letters). Jews ceased using the name in the Greco-Roman period, replacing it with the common noun Elohim (―God‖) to demonstrate the universal sovereignty of Israel‘s God over all others. At the same time, the divine name was increasingly regarded as too sacred to be uttered and was replaced in spoken ritual by the word Adonai (―My Lord‖). From about the 6

th to the 10

th century, the Masoretes

(Jewish scholars who were the first to add vowels to the text of the Hebrew Bible) used the vowel signs of the Hebrew words Adonai or Elohim as the vowels for YHWH; and later on the artificial name Jehovah was produced. Christian scholars and translators after the Renaissance and Reformation periods replaced the sacred name YHWH with GOD and LORD (all in capital letters in the Bible); which was a strategic move of Satan for not using the Name. The Sacred Name occurs 6,828 times in the Hebrew text of the Bible, demonstrating YHWH wants us to use it.

In the 19th and 20

th centuries, biblical scholars again began to use the form

Yahweh and it is now the conventional usage in biblical scholarship; but leading Hebrew Scholars suggest YHWH should be pronounced as Yah-

oo-VaH (Y‘shua is derived from YaH-shuvah which means YaH saves. Yah (יהis

an abbreviation of God‘s name YHWH, as seen in Psalm 68:4. The Name is also found in the word hallellu-YaH, which means, "you praise the LORD").

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HTG’s Constitution to Ordain Messianic Rabbi’s Introduction

Theological Students attend various Universities or Seminaries in order to obtain a formal qualification; and to be formally ordained into a certain Church denomination and then pursue a professional career by starting a Church or joining an existing Church. The Hebraic Teaching Group offer Believers from the Hebraic Root Movement, for the first time, a combination of something extraordinary as no other Institute has ever done this before, namely 1) Formal Hebraic Roots Studies from a Certificate to a PhD in various Fields with sound accreditation, and 2) the outstanding opportunity to be formally ordained as a Minister! Yes also to pursuit a professional career as Theological Clergymen. This Constitution is written with our deepest respect to our Messianic Colleagues who, with heart and soul, are seeking to build something beautiful - modern Torah-observant Messianism

1. It is our prayer that this

constitution will be a blessing for Leaders in their gathering places2 to give

clarity to sound leadership. Who are we? The HTG Messianic Rabbinical Council (MRC) was formally established in September 2011. The Council consists of a group of top Messianic Scholars who share a common vision for Messianic practice rooted in Torah, guided by the Ruach HaKodesh

3, and faithful to Messiah Y‘shua in

the twenty-first century. The HTG MRC had its beginnings four years earlier. At that time a set of Messianic Professors from South Africa invited some of their colleagues who are working on halakhic

4 teachings/standards for their Yeshiva

congregations. While other areas of Messianic life are of profound importance, such as worship, ethics, and social concern, we believed that Formal Education had received far less attention than their place in Messianic life warranted.

1 Known also as Messianic Judaism

2 Synagogues and Yeshivas.

3 YHWH‘s Divine Spirit.

4 The Way—the collective body of Jewish religious law, including biblical law (the 613 mitzvot)

and later talmudic and rabbinic law, as well as customs and traditions.

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Theological Students study anything from 4-7 years at a formal Institute i.e. a University, while Orthodox Rabbis study their entire life till the age of 30 in a credited Yeshiva, but Messianic Believers hardly ever study formally and therefore they are being openly ridiculed by both Christians as well as Orthodox Jews. The Messianic movement consists partly of Believers unaccustomed to, or uncomfortable with, a traditionally observant Jewish life, so our mission is directed primarily to Believers who have little knowledge of, or attachment to, traditional Jewish practice. We want to set out on a journey with Y‘shua that will lead us all, in diverse ways, to a richer and fuller life of Torah observance. HTG MRC’s Mission Statement Rooted in Torah, instructed by the Ruach, faithful to Messiah Y‘shua The Council’s core mission The MRC promote a life of faithfulness to YHWH's Covenant among Messianic followers of Messiah Y‘shua by providing realistic and practical studies and guidelines for Messianic observance. Our core mission is to define, clarify, and foster standards of observance through formal education for members and their Messianic communities, who look to us for formal leadership. We also exist to serve the professional and personal needs of our members by fostering high standards of professional competence, ethical behaviour, and Torah-based conduct. About the HTG MRC The Council is a body of professionally appointed Messianic Rabbis, committed to the exciting concept of a Messianic Judaism which is both faithful to the teachings, example and person of Messiah Y‘shua and to the deep connection with the larger Hebraic Roots community. This connection demands our giving serious attention to Torah as practiced through the march of Jewish history. The Council ordains both Jewish and non-Jewish Messianic Believers as Rabbis. These Messianic Rabbis endeavor to assist in developing standards of Messianic Jewish practice so that their congregations (Synagogues and Yeshivas) worldwide can grow together

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as life-giving communities, filled with the Ruach and the joy of Jewish life renewed in Y‘shua. The Messianic Rabbi and the Pastor Becoming a Rabbi is not the same straightforward process as becoming a Minister or a Pastor. Also, different sects of Judaism have different requirements to become a Rabbi. However, it can be said that most recognized Rabbis have earned a degree, and have participated in post-graduate rabbinical studies through a seminary. In some groups, a Rabbi must also spend time in Israel prior to working for a congregation. For the MRC it is not as the guy who leads a congregation, who called himself a "Pastor", and who went away to a conference for a week comes back as "an ordained Pastor". While he perhaps had previously taken some formal classes in a Christian seminary, he does not know anything Jewish history of Torah Observance apart from reading a book or two and/or watched a DVD. This is the problem with Christians coming into the Hebraic Root movement. We forcefully say, that not just anyone with a theological background who put a kippah

5 and a tallit

6 on, can call himself a Messianic Rabbi or

Minister. It is outright ridiculous. HTG MRC‘s standards are exceptionally high and only the very best will be able to join as a full member! Those pursuing their goals to become an Ordained Messianic Minister can join as a Training Minister of Minister pending the criteria set is met in a given time as specified in the criteria. How does someone join the HTG MRC Affiliation? If you are a Believer who desires that ordination must be properly conferred, you need first of all to comply with the listed criteria as laid out in this Constitution. You must also accept the vision, beliefs, and values of the Council as in this Constitution and HTG‘s Website. Lastly you must be committed to Torah principles and the lifestyle. Once you comply with these principles, you may apply for Membership.

5 Skull cap.

6 Prayer Shawl.

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Who can become an Ordained Messianic Minister? The HTG MRC currently accepts any race, colour or creed to become a Minister who is a Religious Teacher. The Scripture talks clearly about this:

"And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;"

7 and "And YHWH

hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues"

8.

The Minister refers in particular to a person who studies and who help others to know the Scriptures, in particular the Torah. HTG designed this two-fold programme; Formal Education for academic competency and Formal Ordination for rigorous ministry as a combination because we feel it maintains the highest standards for Messianic education currently available in the global Hebraic Roots community. May a woman become a Minister through the HTG MRC? At present there is very few Messianic Judaism organization in the Hebraic Roots community which offers ordination to women. However the HTG MRC openly supports the ordination to the Minister‘s Body of qualified and competent women. (Please view the A5 Booklet "Are Women Allowed to Preach and Teach" available on our Online Shop). Why women participate in the Ministry? Messianic women who share our basic outlook contribute significantly to the development of a Torah-rich Messianic Judaism. We encouraged women to apply for ordination and to add their voices as standards to develop certain areas which demand the insights of wise and experienced women. Without this input, the efforts of our organization would be severely hampered. Do non-Jews have a place in the HRTI MRC? The primary focus of the HTG MRC is derived by answering the question, "who are the 'teachers' the Scripture refers to in Eph 4:11 and 1 Cor 12:28,

7 Eph 4:11

8 1 Cor 12:28

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only Jews, or do they include non-Jews that have been crafted into the Olive Tree

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Thus, our membership for ordination is for Messianic Jewish as well as Messianic non-Jewish Believers to become Messianic Ministers. What do HTG MRC do that is different than the other Messianic organizations? The Rabbinate is a group of Messianic Rabbis, who endeavour to bring a clear focus and definition for a branch of Judaism which affirms Y‘shua of Nazareth as the Messiah of Israel, and Saviour of the Nations. Torah-observant Messianism is a distinct Jewish branch of Judaism, which makes a clear distinction that people who are not Jewish and follow Y‘shua of Nazareth as Lord and Saviour become part of the larger Commonwealth of Israel without becoming Jewish by bloodline. We acknowledge that the New Covenant Halachah

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adhere to the Torah-observant Messianism faith for followers of Y‘shua (Please read the Booklet series "Christian Foundational Teachings"). We believe that this instruction is still applicable in the 21st century, and that it is there to preserve the purity of the Y‘shua-faith. What is a Messianic Minister? A Messianic Minister is:

1) a follower of Y‘shua 2) qualified by a formal supervised course of study or years of

experience in Jewish upbringing, 3) approved by HTG MRC as ordaining authority, 4) and empowered by the Ruach 5) through the rite of ordination to expound and apply Torah as fulfilled in

and mediated through the person, teaching, and work of Y‘shua.

9 Romans chapter 11.

10 Judaism classically draws no distinction in its laws between religious and ostensibly non-

religious life; Jewish religious tradition does not distinguish clearly between religious, national, racial, or ethnic identities. Halachah guides not only religious practices and beliefs, but numerous aspects of day-to-day life. Halachah is often translated as "Jewish Law", although a more literal translation might be "the path" or "the way of walking". The word derives from the Hebrew root that means to go or to walk.

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As a custodian of Israel's revelation and tradition, including the Apostolic Writings, and as a disciple of Mashiach Y‘shua Rabbenu

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Minister teaches the ways of YHWH and models this tradition for the members of the Messianic community in a manner filled with the Ruach of YHWH. The core duty of the Minister In this role, a Minister serves as a teacher and symbolic exemplar of Torah for the community, principally in matters of religious practice and instruction. This historical understanding of the nature of a Rabbi is reflected in the text of the HTG MRC‘s Teudat Semikha (Ordination Certificate):

"Know this in all of Israel, that …so-and-so… was appointed to the role of Minister and Teacher by the HTG MRC, by virtue of finishing a course of study in Scripture, learning the Mitzvot, and studying the traditions of Israel as approved by the authority by the Council Members. The recipient of this certificate obligates himself/herself to carrying out the ways of YHWH, the Holy One blessed be He, and is found to be on the path of acquiring knowledge and studying the pleasant ways of the Almighty and Mashiach Y’shua. From the date written above the recipient of this certificate may function in the role of Minister and Teacher among literal and spiritual people of Israel. May YHWH, the Holy One blessed be He, enlighten our eyes and attach our hearts to His Torah."

Qualification factors to serve as a Minister Four things qualify a Believer to serve as a Messianic Minister. Firstly, a Messianic Minister must be a follower of Y‘shua who exhibits commitment to Y‘shua in both word and deed. Total commitment to Y‘shua is what distinguishes the Messianic Rabbinate. The Messianic Minister should exemplify the life, message, and teachings of Y‘shua as they seek to teach Believers the ways of YHWH and model this tradition for the members of the Messianic community.

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Messiah Y‘shua our Rabbi.

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Secondly, a Messianic Minister must be qualified by a formal supervised course of study. Attainment of the Messianic Minister can be acquired through informal self-study and combined with a life-long Jewish upbringing. Anyone aspiring to ministry ordination must study Scripture, learn Halachah and the traditions of Israel, and be strengthened in devotion to Y‘shua the Messiah through a course of training under the supervision of one or more Messianic Scholars: "Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble"

12. Such a course of study is vitally essential for the personal

and spiritual formation of the candidate and for the development of Messianic Rabbis who display integrity of thought and action (kol talmid chacham she'ein tocho kevaro einno talmid chacham "Any talmid chacham whose character does not correspond to their exterior is not a talmid chacham"; b. Yoma 72b; cf. Matt 15:11). This understanding of rabbinic education is modeled on the practice of Messiah Y‘shua and His disciples and is also displayed in classical rabbinic education (e.g., Matt 4:18-25; b. Berachot 27a). Bottom-line, Ministers and especially Rabbis all over the planet study formally for years, there will be no short-cuts at HTG. Thirdly, ordination to become a Messianic Minister can only be authorized through the HTG MRC Ordination Authority, which is affiliated with the educational institution overseeing the candidate's preparation for the ministry. This understanding of the role of the ordaining authority in ordaining a Messianic Minister is adopted from traditional Jewish practice and is in agreement with historic Believer‘s practice. Fourthly, a Messianic Minister must be empowered by the Ruach through the rite of ordination. The Ruach plays a central role in ordaining people to particular vocations

13. Throughout the Scriptures, the giving of the Ruach

is conjoined with the laying-on of hands by those in authority. The functions of the Minister Three functions are the essential responsibilities of all Messianic Ministers. Firstly, the Messianic Minister expound and apply Torah as fulfilled in and mediated through the person, teaching, and work of Y’shua. The statement understands Torah in the broadest sense. At its core, the Torah entails the Scriptures as revealed to Israel and canonized in the TaNaCh and Apostolic Writings. The Messianic Minister expounds and applies the

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1 Peter 5:5. 13

Num 27:18; Deut 34:9; 2 Kings 2:14-15; Acts 6:5-6, 13:2-3; 1 Tim 4:14.

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Torah in light of the tradition, including the historical enrichment of the biblical heritage within the life of the community. For a Messianic Minister, his or her relationship to Israel‘s tradition and community, is approached through the person, work, and teaching of Y‘shua our Rabbi and is informed by the teaching of the historic and universal Body of Messiah. Secondly, central to the calling of Messianic Ministers is the role of teaching Believers the ways of YHWH. Their calling is not merely exercised within the Messianic community in their country but also extends globally. Messianic Ministers should call all Believers to deeper faithfulness to their covenantal responsibilities as through the mitzvot

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and ongoing commitment to Messiah Y‘shua. Thirdly, Messianic Ministers are called to serve the Messianic community as exemplars of the education they have received. The TaNaCh, the Apostolic Writings, and Rabbinic Literature are filled with examples of people learning the ways of YHWH not only through verbal teaching but also through their actions. It is important to note that this definition is not meant to define how a Messianic Minister should spend the majority of his or her time, nor suggest that the essential and universal rabbinical role defined here captures the most important functions that every Minister must fulfill. In fact, many, if not most, of our Ministers will continue to focus the majority of their time and energy in their roles as spiritual leaders for our congregations, administering our communal organizations, serving as chaplains, or teaching in our educational institutions. The difference between conversion and ordination

Conversion to Judaism (Hebrew: גיור , giyur) is a formal act undertaken by a

non-Jewish person who wishes to be recognised as a full member of the Jewish community. A Jewish conversion is both a religious act and an expression of association with the Jewish people. A formal conversion is also sometimes undertaken to remove any doubt as to the Jewishness of a person who wishes to be considered a Jew. We at HTG MRC do not do conversion. An ordination is a certificate that is issued, that shows a particular organisation‘s respects your calling into the ministry. This is what we at

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Instructions or commandments.

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HTG MRC do, we ordain individuals who complies with the criteria set in this Constitution to launch them into ministry. The question from Pastors "I have been raised, saved, and attended a so-and-so church nearly my whole life and had the chance to attend a Messianic Congregation about a year ago. I love Torah-observant Messianism and want to "ordained" even though I know it is not possible because I am already a Christian. I have fervently prayed and gave the matter much consideration and I would like to continue with it. I received my calling to be a minister of the Gospel about 15 years ago, could I become a Rabbi by taking this route and studying more about Hebrew Roots or should I go to a "Messianic Seminary"? I love Torah-observant Messianism and consider myself Messianic Jewish because I have joined the Messianic Congregation and actively participate." It isn't just a "I'll get up one morning and be a Messianic Minister or Rabbi!" -- there is much education needed along with that decision, and yes there is "formal" education you have to go through if you were not brought up Jewish. In-depth education from an accredited University is required to become a Messianic Minister. Our Messianic Minister‘s need as much education as a Conservative or Reform Minister‘s do, in fact it is much more. See the "criteria" in this constitution about formal education. We do not agree with the practice of a Christian Pastor becoming a Messianic Minister unless there is Formal Education or Jewish Heritage. You see, would an established mainline Church accept a Rabbi without any formal training on Christian Theology? Not Likely! Then why should Jewish Synagogues/Yeshivas, Messianic, Reformed, Conservative, or Orthodox accept someone not properly trained in Jewish customs and traditions. The fundamental ordination principle John 15:16 is clear about how one may be ordained: "Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you…" First of all the disciples were chosen. Secondly, remember, the Disciples did not attend seminary but they were trained for their calling in great detail by the best Teacher ever. That Teacher was Y‘shua the Rabbi.

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A normal Rabbi in biblical times‘ education is equivalent today to a Doctorate qualification, and Y‘shua‘s teaching ability is far superior than all the top Doctors today. You can think of it this way, if the Disciples were alive today, then it is equivalent of being educated by the top Professors from the various University around today. More than that, they studied full time for at least 3½ year‘s time. That is equivalent to a professional Bachelors Degree. That is why we push for a longer period of study as we are not remotely close to Y‘shua‘s teaching abilities. This is the reason why we as the HTG MRC may set the criteria for ordination, and who may apply. Members and adherents that will not be accepted The following is a list of several movements, not necessarily all, whose members and adherents will not be accepted as candidates or ordination: Yahwist or Sacred Name movements are not approved: Any group that force that the Name of God must be said, written or performed in a unique way to be saved. Or that restricts the use of the Name YHWH; YHWH clearly instructs us to use His Name YHWH many places in the Scriptures

15. Please see Footnote below.

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The titles LORD and GOD appear many times throughout the KJV. In fact, LORD appears 6681 times, while GOD appears 330 times in the OT (Old Testament). That accounts for more than 7000 instances where these titles appear in the OT! Unfortunately, many have been led to believe that these are actual names for God when in fact they are titles. You see, where LORD and GOD appear in all capital letters, that is an indicator that the covenant name of God should be there, represented by the Hebrew consonants, Yod, Heh, Waw, and Heh, thus rendering it as YHWH in English, also known as the Tetragrammaton. YHWH gave us His name for a reason, to show us that He isn‘t just any so-called god, but that He is the Living God; the self-existent and Eternal One, who was and is and always will be; the Creator. Therefore, it is safe to say that if He didn‘t want us to know His name, then He wouldn‘t have given it to us. In fact, if you look at Isaiah 42:8 you will see something very interesting in the KJV, which says, “I am YHWH: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.” From what we understand, early Jews used YHWH, but later changed it to Adonai (Lord), believing the name to be too sacred to pronounce. This had much to do with them being fearful of violating the third commandment: “Thou shalt not take the name of YHWH thy God in vain; for YHWH will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.” (Exod 20:7 KJV). As you can see, His name YHWH is in the commandment itself; twice in fact. Listen, if YHWH didn‘t want His name to be uttered, then why even give a commandment not to use it in vain to begin with? It is obvious that He wants us to use His name, period.

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The Classical/Medieval Christian is not approved: Any group which honours Christmas, Easter or any other "christianized" pagan celebration. Also, any group which does not honour the seventh day Sabbath as YHWH's Holy Day, or any group which teaches all animals are the same for consuming in YHWH's sight. Finally, any group which degrades or annuls the Torah and Hebrew Scriptures as saying they are no more in effect or that YHWH no longer keeps His covenants with Israel. Racial supremacy doctrine is not approved: We do not accept the concept of physical supremacy of any people, neither do we believe that heritage profits anything in comparison to knowing Messiah Y‘shua as Saviour. This holds for all races, colours, and peoples, including Jewish. Jews are the very elected, but not superior. Once a person has come into the knowledge of Messiah Y‘shua they have reached the pinnacle of personhood in YHWH and have entrance into all the covenants. This hour's emphasis on the Jewish people is to complete the promises for the glory of YHWH, not for the glory of persons. Messiah as man alone is not approved: Any group which denies that Messiah Y‘shua is God in the flesh or that will not publically confess such. Any other factions whose members we cannot accept as admins will be listed as they are identified. NOTE: The above exclusions are in no way to offend individuals or judge the salvation of those who join these movements. That is for Messiah only to decide, and judge our hearts as well. All that is said here is to define what the HTG MRC is focused on. The HTG MRC’s Charter The HTG MRC‘s Charter establishes voluntary fellowship. That fellowship in turn allows for accountability and unity among the people of YHWH. The Charter does not govern the internal operations of any group or ministry; however, our office is ready to respond to any spiritual need of which we are called to help. Our Charters are open to all Leaders of Messianic ministries, congregations, home groups, Yeshiva schools, and educational institutions which substantially agree with our Statement of Faith. The HTG MRC Charter is normally exclusive; which means our Charter cannot be normally held while a Leader/Ministry is associated with any other ministry organization, unless permission is granted. An exception may be requested through E-mail.

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Information provided on the Charter Application Form is for the exclusive use of HTG MRC and is completely confidential. None of your information will be released to anyone without your permission in writing. We reserve the right to deny the release of this information. The difference between a seminary qualification and ordination A qualification i.e. diploma from a seminary and an ordination certificate are two different things. A diploma shows that you successfully completed the required courses to graduate from an educational institute. An ordination is a certificate that shows a particular organisation respects your calling into the ministry. It is known that many organised denominations will not ordain you unless you complete training in their seminary. It is also interesting to note that many seminaries are not state accredited educational institutes. Some people complete seminary and never fulfill the responsibilities of their ordination. Also, some people function in the ministry without receiving an ordination from an organized denomination or ministry. Just as there are certain jobs in the secular world that wave a degree education based on experience, there are organizations and denominations that wave the necessity of certain religious qualifications for the same reason. In what way can I use my ordination? There are many different types of ministries. Here are a few examples:

Education ministry, marriage ministry, Bible ministry, chaplain, relief ministry, church minister or pastor, evangelist, street ministry, tract ministry, film ministry, home fellowship ministry, hospital or nursing home ministry, prison ministry, home visitation ministry, informational ministry, missionary work, music ministry, one on one ministry, radio and T.V. ministry, rescue mission ministry, or you may even want to start a ministry on the internet!

Where can I find information on how to perform a marriage, baptism, funeral or other rites and services after ordination? The internet provides sufficient resources for you for your country, but as a local citizen you are free to contact us as well.

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Things you should consider before ordination 1 Discern the reasons why you are seeking ordination as a Messianic Minister. Have you been asked by a friend or family member to do their wedding? Do you want to open a Synagogue, Yeshiva, Messianic Assembly or missionary service? 2. Know that your ordination with us does not automatically allow you to perform weddings in every country (state in the USA). You must check the country/state requirements by calling the clerk‘s office in the area in which the wedding is going to be performed and which legal credentials you have to marry people. Please see the criteria laid out in this Constitution. 3. When you apply for your credentials to marry people, find out if there is a renewal fee. You have a right to know what you are getting into. 4. Avoid free ordinations at any institution/ministry. Free usually means that you will not get a copy of your certificate unless you pay for it. The non-Jew and conversion Consider this analogy: When a person seeks to become a citizen of, for example South Africa or the United States, etc., he or she embarks on a clear and unambiguous step-by-step journey involving application, study, entry and celebration. The integrity of the nation depends on such a rigorous process. Similarly, leaders of the people of Israel are charged with establishing standards for "citizenship" among the Jewish people. No individual has the right to privately claim citizenship apart from such a communally-sanctioned process. However, some try to enter by "climbing over the fence:" Messianic Jewish leaders are perplexed and disturbed by the emergence of the Ephraimite movement. A growing number of non-Jews have found a way to convert themselves to complete identification with Israel with very little Jewish knowledge. Using dubious exegesis of biblical passages they make the startling claim that they are part of literal historic Israel. They say they are now true Jews. Beyond noting the misapplication of biblical texts and the misunderstanding of historical realities which undergird this movement, we have a deep sense of violation when we consider the Ephraimites' claims. Out of ignorance, they have sought the unique status of the Jewish people

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in the world and Jews feel violated because something unclean has occurred in the process. This movement is merely an expression of identity confusion and borderless, boundary-less Jewishness carried out one step further than Messianics have allowed it to be carried out in their congregations. Conversion to Messianic Judaism to become part of the Israel as a physical nation is made available in a very limited way, primarily to those non-Jews who have Jewish spouses, but also to some others under very specific circumstances and is undergirded by Halachic standards by which the new convert is expected to live consistently all the time. Bottom-line, the convert adapt a lifestyle committed to these Halachic rules, and sign a declaration to do so in front of witnesses in a formal Beit Din

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Declaring Y‘shua as Messiah, and to have a splinter isolated house gathering teaching Hebraic Roots does not meet the criteria at all, it must be formal and structured through a recognized body or else Jewish Leaders will never ever accept you as part of Israel, period. Offering conversion is a matter of love The appropriate home for the vast majority of non-Jews who have embraced Y‘shua is a local Messianic congregation/church. However, Messianic Jewish congregations have attracted many non-Jews over the years. These non-Jews wonder, "Who exactly am I? I was not born Jewish. I want to be Jewish. But I don't know how to get there." As the service liturgy progresses they pray the Aleinu (Our Father) with the rest of the congregation, "...for he has made us distinct from the nations ..." and they secretly wonder, "Is this addressed to me? Am I part of Israel?" Of course, non-Jews who came into covenant who worship in Jewish congregations are thoroughly content. They feel whole and they feel satisfied because they know who they are. They are non-Jews who have become part of the "lost sheep of the House of Israel". They attend a Messianic Jewish synagogue so they may drink deeply of the richness of the original (Jewish) Olive Tree where they have been crafted into (Romans 11). They enjoy the music. They are happy to help out where needed and to give money for the maintenance of the congregation. For detail information, visit the page "Christian Foundational Teachings" on our Website www.hrti.co.za and see how you fit into the House of Israel.

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Jewish court with a Jewish Ribbi.

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Love Israel One way to love Israel unconditionally is to protect her boundaries, not conferring citizenship to non-citizens in a casual or slipshod fashion. Of course, all non-Jews who believe in Y‘shua are already citizens of YHWH's kingdom, but not of the Jewish nation as such. According to the teaching of Scripture, Messianic non-Jews are spiritual citizens of the Greater Commonwealth of Israel. They are members of a multi-ethnic, multi-national community of those who have received the Ruach of YHWH through faith in Messiah Y‘shua. They are the people from every nation and tongue who have embraced the Risen One! Application form questions Before completing the Application Form please review these questions. If you can answer "YES" then please complete the form on our Website to apply for membership. NOTE: If you are unable to respond "YES", or have some questions, please feel free to contact us for further clarification.

1) Do you firmly believe and boldly teach our Statement of Faith as per our Website?

2) Have you read and do you agree to follow our Criteria for Messianic Ministries as laid out in this Constitution?

3) Do you teach the observance of the Hebrew Sabbath and eat Biblical Kosher food?

4) Do you support the Jewish people as a high priority? 5) Do you teach that Torah is for all Believers in Messiah? 6) Are you careful and respectful of the Hebrew Holy Name

YHWH? 7) If you are accepted for membership, can you support the HTG

MRC with free-will offerings as YHWH provides?* *It is hoped that Approved Members will endeavour to support the office of HTG MRC with a monthly "tithe" as established by each congregation and ministry. These funds will help the office to respond to the spiritual needs of HTG MRC Charters if or when they arise.

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Criteria to become a Training Messianic Minister through the HTG MRC The general requirements are listed as follow for a Training Messianic Minister:

1) Must be a dedicated follower of our Rabbi and Messiah Y‘shua. 2) Accepted Torah-based Messianism as religion and live by the

Laws of Torah, also complying with the principals of the Sacrificial/Ritual Laws.

3) Must have been practicing the Messianic Jewish faith for at least two years and follow Halachah.

4) Applicant must have a Diploma in Messianic Judaism / Hebraic Roots / Messianic Studies / Jewish Studies / Midrashic Eschatology / Hebrew Studies or any related field.

5) Applicant must be over the age of 20. 6) Applicant must have plans to go to Israel, especially to develop a

relationship with Israel. 7) Applicant must have familiarity with Hebrew as a living language

and must attend the course(s) before ordination. Familiarity means to have at least attended a Basics of Hebrew Language Course.

8) Applicant must have at least a Yeshiva as internship or be a Presenter in an existing Yeshiva to gain some practical experience for Synagogue/Messianic Assembly life.

9) Maximum period allowed for a Training Minister is three years.

If you would like to apply for ordination, please complete the Application Form on our Website. The once off credentials fee will be due as stated on our Website. Criteria to become a Full Messianic Minister through the HTG MRC The general requirements are listed as follow:

1) Must be a dedicated follower of our Rabbi and Messiah Y‘shua. 2) Accepted Torah-based Messianism as religion and live by the

Laws of Torah, also complying with the principals of the Sacrificial/Ritual Laws.

3) Applicant must Halachah according to Y‘shua, i.e. wear tzitziyot in the open, have Shabbat Services according to HTG‘s Liturgy, etc.

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4) Must have been practicing the Messianic Jewish faith and heritage from birth or, Applicant must have a Bachelor‘s Degree in Messianic Judaism / Hebraic Roots / Messianic Studies / Jewish Studies / Midrashic Eschatology / Hebrew Studies / Torah Based Healing or any related field.

5) Applicant must be over the age of 20. 6) Applicant must have been to Israel, or plan to go within a two

year period to develop a relationship with Israel. 7) Applicant must have familiarity with Hebrew as a living language.

Familiarity means to have at least attended a Basics of Hebrew Language Course.

8) Applicant must open a Yeshiva, or Synagogue/Messianic Assembly within a year.

9) Applicant must apply to have a marriage license within six months after ordination.

If you would like to apply for ordination, please complete the Application Form on our Website. The once off credentials fee will be due as stated on our Website.

What must be provided for an ordination application?

1) A properly completed application, which states agreement with the Statement of Faith and criteria standards, and includes the application fee as stated on our Website which is non-refundable.

2) A resume (CV). 3) A current picture (no more than two years old). 4) A testimonial explaining your faith and calling. 5) Proof of academic competency - copies of qualifications (if applicable). 6) Must provide contact information for two character witnesses. 7) Must provide your full postal address.

Payment options

PayPal button and details of bank account (for an Internal Bank Transfer) are available on our Website.

How to Apply for Ordination

1) Email all the requested documentation to admin@hrti.co.za and wait for approval

2) The HTG MRC will review your application within 14 days. 3) After the review of the HTG MRC, you will receive a letter of

acceptance or not accepted.

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4) If your request is denied, we will also give our recommendation as to where we feel growth is necessary for future consideration for ordination.

5) On approval we will post your Ordination Certificate.

Conclusion

The HTG MRC represents a group of Leaders of Messianic Synagogues/ Ministries/Yeshivas who are dedicated to restoring the Hebraic Roots and to provoke the Orthodox Jew to jealousy (Rom 11:11).

Y‘shua was/is a Jew. The Disciples of Y‘shua were Jewish. Both the Jewish and non-Jewish First-Century Believers in Y‘shua kept the Sabbath and the Feasts of YHWH as stated in the Bible. This Council desires to see all Believers in Y‘shua to understand the rich Hebraic/Jewish heritage that the God of Israel gave to His people. In doing so, this Council seeks to give recognition through ordaining Messianic Believers who understand and interpret the Bible from a Hebraic perspective and background while seeking to study, learn, and restore what was originally given to the first century Jewish and non-Jewish Believers in Y'SHUA as Messiah. We seek to give recognition to Messianic Believers through ordination to serve a Torah-observant Messianism people to prepare the Hebrew Bride for their Hebrew Messiah. Truly we are beginning to see the fulfillment of the words of the prophet Zechariah who spoke of a time when:

Thus says YHWH of hosts: In those days it shall come to pass that ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations,

even shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, 'We will go with you: (The Way of the Torah)

for we have heard that God is with you' (Zechariah 8:23)

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