As with most things in life, being competent in a field of practice gives the practitioner a good edge compared to those without a clue or experience. Competence in a sense doesn't need to be at the skill level but can also be at the Character level. Having goof morals can be a qualifying factor where the skills lack or in a field where that is more important than education.
When it comes to religious moderation. Being level headed, not easily angered, being sensible, patience, and the rest of the virtues can pass as competence for the leader.
In urban areas, having a good education will boost the Church leader's profile and make them 'believable' in situations where one needs to mediate between two city dwellers. Education in this sense with be considered a necessity for competency and will also improve the confidence levels of the leader. Many uneducated leaders unfortunately succumb to low esteem and but then tend to be overly religious. Many decisions are then based on a spiritual 'high' or influence rather than common sense. This unfortunately will lead to radicalisation which is one of the biggest hindrances to religious moderation.