CPSP will celebrate its 20th year as a vibrant and innovative certifying and accrediting organization in the clinical pastoral field. The context for the celebration of the CPSP community will be the 2010 CPSP Plenary held in Columbus, Ohio on April 11-April 13, 2010.
Below is a link to download a PDF file of the 2010 CPSP Plenary Brochure.
The approaching Plenary marking the 20th anniversary of the founding of the College of Pastoral Supervision and Psychotherapy is both monumental and extraordinary, especially as one considers the historical opposition marshaled against such a community developing at all by those whose vision of the world prefers the enclave, monolithic, and linear instead of a dynamic, challenging, and renewing community that values human and social capital beyond all else.
Twenty years of CPSP is something of genuine importance to reflect on. Where better to begin reflecting than to consider the impact that the CPSP community has had on my life, vocation, and ministry. My story begins in 1988 prior to the CPSP community’s founding. I had just begun my seminary education. I must admit that beginning a seminary education after having completed a bachelor’s degree in philosophy at the State University of New York is similar to being asked to turn out the lights after so many years working in the clarity of sun light. A seminary education was not the liberating and life-grounding experience that working in the congregation had been for me for so many years before.
In 1994 however, I can remember applying and interviewing for my first unit of Clinical Pastoral Education at Columbia-Presbyterian Hospital in NYC. I had no idea what any of what was being spoken about in CPE was about. One thing I did pick up was that this was very different from seminary. In fact, it was the first time ever in all of my theological training and process for ordination that anyone had ever asked me the question that both stumped and stopped me in my tracks, “Belen, how did that patient visit make you feel?” I had never been asked how I felt by anyone. The question itself was not even a philosophical or theological question that I was accustomed to tackling. I proceeded to answer the question with the confidence born out of my command of speaking my mind, or so I thought. But again came the question: “Belen, it is not what you think, but what did you feel?” I can remember experiencing a sense of loss and being flustered, like falling in a deep swimming pool and not being able to find the bottom to support myself from drifting beyond my control. I can recall the sensation of reaching for straw because I did not have the vocabulary to describe my feelings.
As I entered the patient’s room, the bathroom door, just inside the entranceway, was wide open, and a man was sitting on the toilet. I said, apologetically, “Oh, I’m sorry.” His nonchalant response led me to pause long enough to introduce myself as Hospital Chaplain and to ask, “Are you Jason Hopewell?” “Yes,” he replied, and added, “I want to talk to you.” “I will come back,” I responded.
A white man in his thirties, the patient greeted me with, “Your Excellency,” then sat on his bed with his legs crossed, and I took a chair. I’ve been called a lot of things in my time but never “Your Excellency.” My initial aim was to obtain his religious preference, which was unknown. Saying he was Episcopalian, he immediately stated what he wanted to talk about: “I don’t like certain of my feelings. And I want to get close to God.” (His sudden, and possibly fleeting illness—he was discharged the next day—may have helped to motivate his desire for closeness with God.)
“What feelings don’t you like?,” I asked. He replied, “I’ve been jealous of this man who is handsome. He became ill, and I found myself feeling good about his condition. I then got to know him better, and he seemed like a good person. I don’t like myself for finding pleasure in his illness.
In a March 4, 2009 article published in CountrerPunch.COM Raymond Lawrence challenges a popular held view of "sexual addiction".
In the article he argues that Christianity's "posture toward sexual pleasure has been abysmal. In that respect it should be noted that Christianity, of all the major world religions, is the only one to cast sexual pleasure in such a negative light."
The focus of the NCTS is the presentation of clinical case material within the context of a dynamic small group experience. Participants are charged with the responsibility to bring clinical material for consultation relative to their ministry practice.
Mark the dates on your calendar and make your plans to attend the NCTS by completing the NCTS Registration Form posted below.
April 9. NHL Hockey. Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Detroit Red Wings. 7 P.M. Nationwide Arena. The Arena District is ALIVE on hockey night. Tickets at Columbus Blue Jackets.
April 9-11. Contemporary American Theatre Company. World premiere of “Pierce to the Soul”, about the life of Elijah Pierce, son of a Mississippi slave, who settled in Columbus in the 1900’s to become a preacher, a barbershop owner, and later a celebrated American folk artist. Times: April 9 and 10, 8 P.M.; April 11, 2 P.M. Tickets at Vernon Riffe Center for Government and the Arts.
Continue reading "EVENTS IN COLUMBUS, OHIO DURING 2010 PLENARY"
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 10:47 PM
February 21, 2010
FINAL: 2010 CPSP PLENARY WORKSHOP SCHEDULE SATURDAY, APRIL 10, 2010
ROOM 30. 10 A.M.-12; 1 P.M.-3 P.M. “Existential Psychotherapy and Supervision.” George Gibbs, CPSP Diplomate, psychotherapist at The Ohio State University Harding Hospital. A day long workshop on the basic concepts of existential philosophy and their application in psychotherapy and supervision.
ROOM 30. 3 P.M.-5 P.M. “Health, Spirituality and Religion: Perspectives of a Physician-Turned-Priest.” Ronald David, M.D., M.Div. Dr. David is a pediatrician who has become an Episcopal priest and chaplain in pursuit of his long interest in the science and theology of health.
ROOM 31. 10 A.M.-12. “Gentle Hearts and Hands: Healing Touch.” Jane Reed, M.A., R.N. Jane is a surgical nurse who became interested in energy work in its variety of forms. She will explain and demonstrate the polarity system, the chakra system, reflexology and vibration energy.
Continue reading "FINAL: 2010 CPSP PLENARY WORKSHOP SCHEDULE SATURDAY, APRIL 10, 2010"
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 11:14 AM
February 10, 2010
INVITATION TO THE CPSP COMMUNITY from John deVelder and the NAJC
The National Association of Jewish Chaplains (NAJC) is inviting representatives of the CPSP community to attend a conference in Israel which will gather together organizations involved in spiritual care. This is a very exciting time in Israel as they develop chaplaincy. CPSP has been in the forefront of this effort with CPSP Diplomate, Rabbi Zahara Davidowitz supervising CPSP CPE programs in Jerusalem through the Schecter Seminary for the past three years. Zaharah’s CPSP CPE program is the cornerstone of the emerging consortium of spiritual care organizations.
The NAJC has invited ten representatives of CPSP and ten from ACPE to be part of this ground breaking conference to be held in May in Jerusalem. There will be instantaneous translation from Hebrew to English at the conference. After the two day conference the representatives from the US will enjoy a bus tour of Israel with opportunity to dialogue about ways we might cooperate in developing CPE in Israel and inviting Israeli CPE students to come to the US for a unit of training.
Continue reading "INVITATION TO THE CPSP COMMUNITY from John deVelder and the NAJC "
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 1:15 PM
February 09, 2010
Motorcycle Clubs and Hospital Chaplain Respond with Compassion to the Crisis in Haiti-- by Dr. Belen Gonzalez y Perez
On Sunday January 17th, 2010 I received a phone call from Demon, the TA’s Supreme President, he says “Chaplain Belen, Kase from the FMDs needs you to contact him; they need your help for a Fundraiser to Help the People of Haiti.” I immediately called Kase and learned that the Motorcycle Clubs (M.C. clubs) in Brooklyn and throughout the Metropolitan and surrounding area wanted to schedule a Fundraiser for Haiti on Saturday January 23rd of that same week.
As the chaplain to one of the M.C. clubs, I was being asked to be the custodian of the funds to be raised and to insure that the funds would make their destination to help the people of Haiti. It was my pleasure to do so.
“But to whom should the funds go?” I thought. I began to explore whether any of my fraternal benefit organizations like my insurance company or church affiliates were promoting matching funds initiatives. I was delighted to learn that they were. Donations could be matched one dollar per every two dollars donated. It was a dream for our charity fundraiser for Haiti. We could now raise as much as $1,000 and have it matched with an additional $500.00.
Continue reading "Motorcycle Clubs and Hospital Chaplain Respond with Compassion to the Crisis in Haiti-- by Dr. Belen Gonzalez y Perez"
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 8:11 PM
February 06, 2010
CPSP PLENARY WORKSHOPS FOR YOUR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION
In previous announcements on the CPSP Pastoral Report we called attention to the pre-conference workshops (April 10, 2010) which, this year, will feature a number of presenters as listed below. Since we have never had this number of workshops we need to plan carefully.
It will help if you identify which workshop(s) you plan to attends and reply to me by email. You are free to change your mind but it helps us to anticipate your needs. Late registrants will, of course, attend the workshop of choice if it is not filled.
The Shamanic Drum. Deborah Ling. Drum-making kit $115, sent to me in advance.
The History and Theory of Shamanic Practice. Deborah Ling, M.A.
Advanced Body Talk Demonstration. Mary Shields, Ph.D.
Gentle Hearts and Hands. Jane Reed, R.N.
Continue reading "CPSP PLENARY WORKSHOPS FOR YOUR IMMEDIATE ATTENTION"
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 1:05 PM
February 03, 2010
CPSP PEOPLE IN THE NEWS: Basharat Masih---"Grandview CPE Continues to Grow"
The CPE training program at the Kettering Health Network's Grandview and Southview Medical Centers has been an accredited CPSP CPE training center for many years. Basharat Masih, CPSP Diplomate is the the program's director. Recently Dr. Masih was featured in the KHN TODAY Newsletter
The article reflects how the CPSP's CPE program has avoided the trap of being one bound by an educational model focused only on professional development:
Clinical Pastoral Education at Grandview and Southview Medical Centers does more than help pastors and seminarians improve their ministry to the sick and troubled. The skills they learn apply to all parts of their lives, giving the program an impact well beyond the hospital.
Continue reading "CPSP PEOPLE IN THE NEWS: Basharat Masih---"Grandview CPE Continues to Grow""
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 4:30 PM
January 31, 2010
“Take off your hats” – by Rev. William E. Alberts, Ph.D.
Immediately upon arriving at the hospital at 8 am, I was paged: a 79-year-old black woman, who was Baptist, had just died and her family was requesting the chaplain. I had participated in a family meeting the day before, at which the attending doctor told the many members gathered that their mother was no longer responding to dialysis treatment, that her diabetes was affecting her whole body, and that she probably had two weeks to live at the most. Her oldest son, a tall, burly man in his late 50s, believed she would die that evening, and stayed with her all night. They watched television together, with him holding her hand; and she was aware enough to be present with him. She died at 8 am, with him by her side.
As I entered the room, he immediately came to me and, with his big arms, enveloped me in a hug, and with tears in his eyes said, “I knew she was going to die last night, Reverend. We were together watching television. And this morning she was gone.” “It is so good that you were with her,” I responded. “I’m sure it meant so much to her, as well as to you.”
The oldest son continued the painful and difficult task of calling his many family members. Upon repeatedly dialing numbers and getting voice mail messages, he complained, “Why do they have a damn cell phone if they aren’t going to turn it on?” His grief and frustration in seeking to reach his family told me that I should be with him, rather than attend to other matters and come back when everyone arrived later. He finally got a niece on the line and impatiently said, “Listen! Don’t talk! Your grandma died this morning at 8 o’clock. Get your mom on the phone.” To another relative, he said, “Mom just died. Get your butt over here!” He then stopped dialing, and began sobbing. I went over and put my hand on his shoulder and said, “This is very painful for you.” He nodded, wiping away tears.
Continue reading "“Take off your hats” – by Rev. William E. Alberts, Ph.D. "
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 11:35 PM
January 31, 2010
An Urban Shaman’s Perspective on Soul Retrieval by Thomas Downes
The drums were beating at a fast tempo. The Room was dark with the exception of the dimly lit candles surrounding her.
She was in her early twenties, feeling alone and helpless. She claimed that darkness surrounded her soul. The woman couldn’t sleep, eat, and could hardly walk. Her breath was shallow; she felt her life force was leaving her. She was asking for help.
The doctor said that she was depressed and gave her medication. The pills were not working. Her psychotherapy was not effective. She saw her therapist after the auto accident. She was driving the car, her boyfriend was killed. After the accident she was never the same. She was compelled to visit his grave sight everyday, she blamed herself.
One of her concerned friends told her about the concept of soul loss and the importance to see a shaman about this condition.
The aspect of soul loss can be found in various articles. I recommend Sandra Ingerman’s extensive work on this subject.
Continue reading "An Urban Shaman’s Perspective on Soul Retrieval by Thomas Downes"
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 11:31 PM
January 31, 2010
From the +RED CROSS NEWSROOM --Linda Walsh-Garrison
Earthquake in Haiti: Update #31, January 18, 2010
Red Cross relief teams are mostly mobile right now – traveling to communities rather than working out of fixed-site locations. Here’s the breakdown of where we are right now:
* Hospital, Downtown Port-au-Prince, 150 beds (expects to treat 250,000 during the response)
* Hospital, Carrefour, 120 beds (expects to treat 250,000 during the response)
* Mobile Health (Outreach) Teams, Carrefour (expects to treat 30,000 during the response)
* Mobile Health (Outreach) Teams, Port-au-Prince (expects to treat 30,000 during the response)
* Fixed Health Center, Jacmel (expects to treat 30,000 during the response)
+++++++
While the tragedy in Haiti unfolds, our humanitarian partner, American Red Cross (ARC), settles into the long term relief effort. Fortunately, they are prepared and experienced because of the foresight and dedication of many volunteers and donors. CPSP, too, is contributing to the recovery in many ways - some of our trained members await deployment, others are immersed in their local communities, some are gathering communities in prayers or listening to tears. All are contributors to the recovery.
Continue reading "From the +RED CROSS NEWSROOM --Linda Walsh-Garrison "
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 11:07 PM
January 25, 2010
CPSP ENDORSES FAITHFUL REFORM’S---“A FAITH-INSPIRED VISION OF HEALTH CARE”
At the recent COMISS Network’s Annaul Forum, the Rev. Linda Hanna Walling presented information on the organization “Faithful Reform.” Faithful Reform is an interfaith organization that promotes healthcare reform from a theological and justice-oriented perspective. Faithful Reform provides a crucial voice as our national leaders debate healthcare reform. At the end of the Forum, Rev. Walling presented the document “A Faith-Inspired Vision of Health Care” to President Obama and to the members of the US House and Senate. There are hundreds of individual and group signatories to the “Faith-Inspired Vision,” including CPSP.
Our decision to sign on to the “Faith Inspired Vision” was driven by the Governing Council’s decision in November to endorse comprehensive healthcare reform as a moral issue. All members of CPSP are urged to contact the President and their Senators and Representatives and to urge them to set aside partisan differences and to work to provide quality, comprehensive healthcare for all Americans. In addition, Faithful Reform’s website lists a number of other actions that each of us can take to work toward healthcare reform: www.faithfulreform.org.
Continue reading "CPSP ENDORSES FAITHFUL REFORM’S---“A FAITH-INSPIRED VISION OF HEALTH CARE”"
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 9:56 AM
January 17, 2010
MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. ---"I HAVE A DREAM"
"
Without dreams and vision we perish.
Let's keep Martin Luther King, Jr's dream alive.
Let's dream new, daring and bold dreams.
Let's take on the courage to enact our dreams in the service of human suffering and need.
In so doing, we will change the world.
.
-Perry Miller, Editor
Continue reading "MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. ---"I HAVE A DREAM""
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 11:07 PM
January 17, 2010
The Rev. Dr. Richard Liew Retires by Steven Voytovich
The Rt. Rev. Lawrence C. Provenzano, newly elevated to the Episcopal Diocese of Long Island, offering prayer at Richard’s retirement; The Rev. Dr. Cecily Broderick y Guerra, Vice President of Pastoral Care, assists in the retirement ceremony.
On December 15, 2009, Richard Liew retired from Episcopal Health Services (EHS) after fifteen years of service. Not only did Richard establish Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) in what was a system with about 8 different facilities located at three campuses, but in the last ten years launched indigenous CPE training in numerous regions around the world.
Episcopal Health Services (EHS) is the third CPE program Richard built from the ground up during his thirty years as a CPE supervisor, including establishing a CPE program ministering to migrant farm workers in the CT River Valley in 1974, and building a Pastoral Care and Education Department at New York Hospital-Cornell University Medical Center/Westchester Division from 1990-1994.
Richard holds doctoral degrees including a Ph.D in Pastoral Psychology and a D.Min. in CPE Supervision. He was honored by Association of Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE) as International Clinical Pastoral Educator in 2001, and recognized for Outstanding Achievement in pastoral care and counseling by EHS and the Diocese of Long Island in 2006. Richard served as Convener of the College of Pastoral Supervision and Psychotherapy's National Clinical Training Seminar from 1997-2000 and President of CPSP from 2004-2006.
Continue reading " The Rev. Dr. Richard Liew Retires by Steven Voytovich"
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 11:04 PM
January 15, 2010
THE HAITI CRISIS: How to Help--Linda Linda Walsh-Garrison
At this time International Services, is coordinating the response to the devastating Haitian earthquake. The American Red Cross and International Red Crescent Society is collaborating.
Our liaison, Earl Johnson, Senior Associate, Spiritual Care, Partner Services - reports that there might be “10,000 private humanitarian organizations established in Haiti..and many of our faith group partners have missions, schools, hospitals, orphanages, medical missions, as well as churches there…many are still operating well outside of the capital where the majority of death and devastation has occurred. Since these operations are faith-based, emotional and spiritual support is integrated into normal daily life and practices. Religious faith IS the primary coping mechanism in disaster there and the population is serviced by the faith-related groups working there now, who have long mission histories there.
Currently, the only deployments are Red Cross volunteers specially trained to manage international emergency operations. Please consider supporting your community’s local needs by volunteering with your local Red Cross.”
Continue reading "THE HAITI CRISIS: How to Help--Linda Linda Walsh-Garrison"
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 3:07 PM
January 14, 2010
BARELY A DAY BEFORE THE EARTHQUAKE IN HAITI: AMERICAN RED CROSS AND CPSP SIGN A MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT
Juliet K. Choi, JD, Senior Director,Partner Disaster Services of the American Red Cross, and Raymond J. Lawrence, General Secretary of CPSP, signed a Memorandum of Agreement on January 11, at Red Cross National Headquarters in Washington. The agreement formalizes the availability of various qualified CPSP certified persons for temporary volunteer placement in the context of disasters. Present at the signing and featured in the photo above were Earl E. Johnson, Red Cross's Senior Associate for Spiritual Care Partner Services, and CPSP-Red Cross liaison Linda Walsh-Garrison. Also present were CPSP Registrar Barbara McGuire, and Diplomates David Plummer and Kay Myers.
CPSP is privileged to have this formal relationship with the American Red Cross, and to provide personnel assistance in its humanitarian support to victims of disasters.
Continue reading "BARELY A DAY BEFORE THE EARTHQUAKE IN HAITI: AMERICAN RED CROSS AND CPSP SIGN A MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT"
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 8:31 PM
January 11, 2010
2010 CPSP PLENARY PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS ANNOUNCED BY JAMES GEBHART
THIS YEAR PLAN ON COMING EARLY ON SATURDAY, APRIL 10th FOR A DAY FILLED WITH WORKSHOPS. LOOK THESE OVER; WE WILL GET BACK TO YOU WITH WAYS TO REGISTER FOR YOUR DESIRED WORKSHOP.
THIS IS A NEW EXPERIENCE: WORKSHOPS CONSISTENT WITH THE PLENARY THEME.
-Jim Gebhart, 2010 CPSP Plenary Coordinator
2010 PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS
On Saturday, April 10, one day prior to the 2010 CPSP Plenary, a variety of workshops will be offered related to the theme of the Plenary, “The Recovery of Soul.” These include leadership from the shamanic community, from practitioners of forms of healing touch and energy work, and from representatives of pastoral care and psychotherapy in the CPSP community.
More details of these workshops will be forthcoming in the CPSP Pastoral Report as other members of the community might wish to offer a workshop. At this time the following workshops are announced:
THE SHAMANIC DRUM. Deborah Ling, M.A., Director of Shamanic Practice, leader. For persons who are interested, Deborah will discuss the historic nature of the drum in shamanic (and other) traditions. For persons who wish to make their own drum, Deb will be the instructor. Expense for the drum-making kit is $115.
THE HISTORY AND THEORY OF SHAMANIC PRACTICE. Deborah Ling,, leader. Attention will be given to a differentiation between spiritual direction and shamanic practice.
ADVANCED BODY TALK DEMONSTRATION. Mary Shields, Ph.D., Advanced Body Talk Practitioner, leader. This will feature a demonstration of powerful balance and Reiki methodology.
Continue reading "2010 CPSP PLENARY PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS ANNOUNCED BY JAMES GEBHART"
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 9:29 PM
January 07, 2010
2010 CPSP PLENARY BROCHURE
CPSP will celebrate its 20th year as a vibrant and innovative certifying and accrediting organization in the clinical pastoral field. The context for the celebration of the CPSP community will be the 2010 CPSP Plenary held in Columbus, Ohio on April 11-April 13, 2010.
Act now to join the celebration!
Below is a link to download a PDF file of the 2010 CPSP Plenary Brochure.
DOWNLOAD 2010 CPSP PLENARY BROCHURE
DOWNLOAD 2010 PLENARY PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS
DOWNLOAD: EVENTS IN COLUMBUS DURING 2010 PLENARY
Continue reading "2010 CPSP PLENARY BROCHURE"
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 12:26 PM
December 24, 2009
A CHRISTMAS MESSAGE by Perry Miller, Editor
Peace and Joy"- although a rarity for most of us, can break into our lives for fleeting moments. Our lives might actually be transformed or at least made bearable.
The Christmas season is one that both comforts and disturbs by our awareness of what is but yet mindful of that which our heart yearns.
I wish you the gift of "Peace & Joy" but also the noble gift of "Courage" - the courage to forge ahead even when the winter of life is hard.
Merry Christmas!
Perry Miller, Editor
Continue reading "A CHRISTMAS MESSAGE by Perry Miller, Editor"
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 9:40 AM
December 22, 2009
A Christmas Story: "Ah, I can see a little sparkle now” – by Rev. William E. Alberts, Ph.D.
She is a small, 91-year-old white patient sitting on a chair by her bed, with her daughter in another chair reading a book. “I’m Rev. Alberts, Hospital Chaplain making my rounds,” I said with a smile. The patient, not relaxing her stare, ordered, “Sit down and talk to me.” Her daughter responded by immediately giving her chair to me, and then sat on the bed. I pulled the chair up closer to the patient as my aim was to possibly establish some closeness with her.
“You’re listed as a Christian,” I said. “What does that mean?,” she demanded. “Whatever it means to you,” I replied. “I don’t go to church,” she said. Her daughter then explained, “Mom was a Catholic, and my dad was an Episcopalian, and my sister and I were raised Episcopalian. So I listed her as Christian.” I responded to the patient, “I assume that is what it means to you then.” She continued to stare at me.
I moved to the patient’s condition: “How are you doing today?” “Not good at all,” she replied. I hate hospitals. I don’t want to be in this damn place.” I answered, “If you hate hospitals, I can see why you don’t want to be here. My father hated doctors. But the hospital is a good place to be when you need the treatment it provides.” Her look indicated my common sense was neither informing nor comforting. 
The patient’s daughter was again very helpful: “Mom has lived alone for 20 years, ever since dad died. And until now, at age 91, she has never been in a hospital. Three days ago she fell and broke her hip in three places, and is in a lot of pain. And now she is sitting in a chair, which is remarkable.” “I can see why you don’t like it here, with your pain and what you’re dealing with,” I said, and added, “But it’s still a good place to help with the healing.” She replied,” People who don’t like hospitals want to get better just to get the hell out of here.” I acknowledged with a smile, “People have different reasons for getting better, and that’s probably one of them.”
Continue reading "A Christmas Story: "Ah, I can see a little sparkle now” – by Rev. William E. Alberts, Ph.D. "
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 6:03 AM
December 22, 2009
CPSP PEOPLE IN THE NEWS: Changing Society: A Social and Spiritual Vision for the Year 2020 and Beyond by Robert L. Menz, D.Min.
Given the state of the world and the vast amount of change in all sectors of human life, Robert L. Menz's new book appears to have hit the mark in its relevance to the current issues we all face. Here is some of what is being said about Changing Society: A Social and Spiritual Vision for the Year 2020 and Beyond:
Changing Society: A Social and Spiritual Vision for the Year 2020 and Beyond addresses the five traditional social institutions (marriage & family, religion, education, politics, and economics) as well as other important social institutions (health care, race/ethnicity, and technology). Dr. Menz and the other authors provide keen social insights as they consider the current dynamics as well as the historical and future issues of each of these social institutions. Changing Society is unique in that each of these writers approach their topics not only from their vast professional expertise but also from their great spiritual awareness (that is, such things as values, essence, meaning and purpose). With the intention of focus and clarity, and by projecting into the year 2020, one can appreciate how Vision 2020 in the title captures a double-entendre. The reader will find this book enlightening and inspiring.
“Changing Society reveals some of the real complexities we face in the twenty first century. Readers will be forced to reflect on some of the more contemporary issues, such as marriage, healthcare, education, race, religion and politics as these issues affect our lives.” – Senator Tom Roberts, State Senator, Columbus, Ohio
Continue reading "CPSP PEOPLE IN THE NEWS: Changing Society: A Social and Spiritual Vision for the Year 2020 and Beyond by Robert L. Menz, D.Min."
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 5:55 AM
December 22, 2009
CPSP Changing the Face of the Pastoral Care Movement
National Clinical Training Seminar Reflection by
Maria Scaros-Mercado
It was to be my first conference with my new found colleagues and mentors. I was shifting into a new role and looked forward to being with same minded people who truly believed in the integrity and grace of the human spirit. Though anticipation was undeniable, I consciously shifted into my Buddhist self so as to be comfortable in the place of “not knowing”. This I felt was the only way in which to truly prepare to meet people who, in my mind, were to be my gurus. Entering the Carmelite Retreat Center I immediately felt the serenity. I drove up to a full parking lot without much activity and entered a room swirling with the colors and shapes of diversity and the music of chatter, laughter and comradery. I soon became aware of a smile that spontaneously came across my mouth along with a sense of belonging.
As everyone introduced themselves I found myself listening intently to each and every one. It was at the picture taking segment that I met an Orthodox Christian priest. He recognized my prayer bracelet. I was thrilled to meet him in this community. I had been feeling somewhat lonely in that my particular tradition was not well represented. I felt that that those in my Orthodox Christian community needed to show more of a presence in the NCTS. My prejudices were shattered and I was pleased. Though I felt a strong connection with my fellow chaplains in training, meeting an Orthodox Christian priest was the piece de resistance.
Continue reading "CPSP Changing the Face of the Pastoral Care Movement"
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 5:51 AM
December 22, 2009
First Indigenous CPSP Diplomate in Malaysia by Chor-Kiat Sim
(Left to Right): Revs. Richard Liew, John DeVelda, Francine Angel, Steven Abbarow, C. Alejandro, and Chor-Kiat Sim who represent Malaysia, China, USA, India, Porto Rico, and Singapore respectively.
Rev. Steven Abbarow, an Anglican priest who is the archdeacon in Ipoh, Malaysia, was certified as the first Clinical Pastoral Education Supervisor/Diplomate of the College of Pastoral Supervision and Psychotherapy (CPSP) in Malaysia. The certification committee of the New York/New Jersey Chapter consisted of an international group of CPSP Diplomates who applauded Rev. Abbarow’s vision and desire to become a clinical educator and to join the U.S. CPSP Indigenous CPE Team in mentoring the remaining Supervisors-In-Training in Malaysia.
Rev. Steven Abbarow who was supervised by the Rev. Dr. Richard Liew, brings a rich Indian cultural background and Anglican heritage to the work of pastoral education in his developing nation. His native culture and his learning experiences derived from his diligence in his father’s tea house when his family struggled to survive in hard times, his theological foundation based on his understanding of the parables in the Gospel (such as the widening influence of yeast and caring experiences of shepherds), including his decades of ministering to his parishioners in Malaysia, places him in a distinctive supervisory vantage.
Continue reading "First Indigenous CPSP Diplomate in Malaysia by Chor-Kiat Sim"
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 5:48 AM
November 24, 2009
The Death of Benjamin Preston Bogia
Ben Bogia was one of the earliest clinical pastoral supervisors to throw his lot in with the College of Pastoral Supervision and Psychotherapy in the early 1990s, during a time when no one was sure we would be sustained as a professional community. He was present at the first Plenary meeting at Camp Bethel in Roanoke, Virginia.
Ben continued as a faithful and energetic leader in CPSP until his health began failing him recently. He founded one of the first CPSP Chapters in Kentucky, and assisted other Chapters to start up both in Kentucky and later in Maryland. For most of the early years of CPSP Ben was the Secretary of the Governing Council.
Ben was the kind of person who was not embarrassed to express a minority opinion, nor was he afraid to ruffle feathers. He was undaunted at finding himself in a minority position. The CPSP community has lost a strong and individuated voice with Ben’s passing. We hope his memory will inspire others to follow his strong example. -Raymond J. Lawrence, CPSP General Secretary
The following is the obituary of Benjamin Preston Bogia:
Benjamin Preston Bogia, 75, died at home in Princess Anne, MD, on November 19, 2009, of complications from ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis – sometimes called Lou Gehrig’s disease). A patient of both Coastal Hospice and the ALS Clinic at the University of Maryland, he experienced the onset of the disease in early 2008, and was diagnosed in October, 2008.
Born in Wilmington, DE, on June 1, 1934, he was the son of the late Elva and Ben Bogia, and grew up with two younger brothers, Norman Bogia of Wilmington, DE, and Allison Bogia of Chicopee, MA, both of whom survive him. He attended Conrad High school, where he was active in music and drama.
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Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 6:15 PM
November 17, 2009
Raymond Lawrence Represents CPSP at the Society for Biblical Literature Conference
The Society for Biblical Literature will hold its annual meeting in New Orleans November 20-24, 2009
Raymond Lawrence, CPSP General Secretary, will represent CPSP as a panelist on two different book review sessions at the SBL Annual Meeting in New Orleans next week. The first book review session is on Donald Capps, Jesus as Village Psychiatrist (2008), and the second session is on Peter Jeffery's The Secret Gospel of Mark Unveiled: Imagined Rituals of Sex, Death, and Madness in Biblical Forgery (2007). Both Capps and Jeffery are Princeton Seminary professors.
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 11:29 PM
November 17, 2009
Chapter Input and CPSP Leadership by Mary Davis
CPSP, as per our Covenant, commits to “being mutually responsible to one another for our professional work and direction”.
All CPSP chapters have an opportunity at this time to take responsibility for the future direction of CPSP as we prepare to appoint the next CPSP President-Elect, who would take leadership of CPSP at the 2012 Plenary. The By-Laws of CPSP (Section 5.02) note that “chapter input will be sought in the selection of future nominations for President.” The Executive Committee of CPSP receives the names of these suggested future leaders, presents the names at the Annual Plenary, and the Governing Council (made up of leaders and chapter conveners/representatives of all chapters) appoints the next President-Elect.
We urge all chapters to dialogue and discern together to submit names of persons who could serve in this most important leadership role for our future.
Some questions to be considered by the chapters or those who are being suggested for this role are: Are you willing to service in this role, and if so, what is your interest in doing so? What gifts do you bring to leadership for CPSP? How do you envision CPSP in two/three years?
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Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 5:56 PM
November 16, 2009
CPSP PEOPLE IN THE NEWS: Barbara McGuire, LMSW
Barbara McGuire, LMSW was featured in an article that appeared in NURSE.COM on November 2. 2009. The article focused on the vital work of the Hospice Care Network. The program provides services to sick children and their families through Network's hospice and bereavement programs. Within the service provided is the unique dimension of providing care and counseling for pregnant mothers who carry their unborn babies to term who might be still born or who have a terminal illness.
McGuire is quoted extensively throughout the article:
We journey through the entire process with them. So the counselor stays with the family throughout the entire pregnancy, as well as when they bring in pastoral care, and are with them during the birth, if [the families] want,” McGuire says. “I don’t know many hospice programs that offer as extensive a bereavement program as we do. A lot of hospices mandated by Medicare provide bereavement up to 13 months after the patient dies. However, most bereavement is letters and possibly a phone call from a volunteer. In our bereavement department, we have trained professionals and a large staff, and we treat our clients individually and run groups... We’ve found that even having a diagnosis in utero of a terminal illness of a child is a tremendous grief,” McGuire says. “The loss of that child can go on for decades. The message that I would want people to hear is: Don’t go through this alone.
Barbara McGuire is the CPSP Registrar, a Board Certified Clinical Chaplain and Pastoral Counselor.
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Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 10:06 PM
November 16, 2009
FROM THE EDITOR: CPSP Little Rock, Arkansas Chapter Blog
The PR ran across the Little Rock, AR Chapter Blog that is published by George Hull. The blog stimulated a couple of thoughts.
First, the latest post on the blog is a notice about the Free Medical Clinic that will be held in that community November 21, 2009 with the request for volunteers to serve the thousands who will attend the free medical clinic because they have no or inadequate health care. Most who will attend this free clinic are the working poor. It is estimated that 45,000 people will die within a year as a direct result of their not being able to afford health care. It's a national and moral and tragedy that this situation exist.
The post also suggests that the Little Rock Chapter understands that as a group it is grounded in their geographical community with a commitment to serve that community as a part of its mission. CPSP at its best is about ministry and service to those who are in need. One of my wishes is that all CPSP Chapters take a look around to see how their Chapter might respond to human need beyond the boundaries of its clinical training programs and service institutions represented by its Chapter members.
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Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at 9:34 PM
