Pastoral Education
Clinical Pastoral Education
The Clinical Pastoral Education program is proud to introduce the 2008-2009 Resident Chaplains. From left to right: Loren Fast, Lawrence Reeve, Samuel Thomas, Erica Klaich, and Brownsville Resident David Sanchez.
Under the supervison of Rev. Cindy M. Graber the residents will spend the next year developing their ministry through didactics, seminars and hands on clinical training. This program is an action/reflection process that promises to serve both the residents and the patients.
Chaplain Interns
This group of Chaplain Interns is the first to join the Clinical Pastoral Education program under the Extended Program. From left to right: Francisco Pon, Tom Cosper, Karen Smith, Elizabeth Smith, Valeria Dubourdiu, MC Thomas, and Gerry Garcia.
As the CPE program grows the Extended Program has been introduced to give lay people the opportunity to expand their ministry skills. The Intern Chaplains will spend the next seven month in a classroom setting as well as visiting patients.
Other Pastoral Education
Valley Baptist chaplains may be available to provide an educational program for your church or civic group on a topic related to healthcare ministry or chaplaincy.
Ministers’ Day
Ministers’ Day is an educational conference provided for area clergy each year. This is an excellent time of continuing education as well as an opportunity to network and fellowship with area ministers. As an annual training event, Ministers’ Day focuses on topics related to pastoral/spiritual care, counseling, and ethics.
NOVA (National Organization for Victim Assistance)
The basic NOVA course prepares ministers and church leaders to help people cope with their immediate reactions when a crisis occurs. The training, also, equips leaders to plan for longer term of emotional support and assist participants in developing their own community-based crisis response program and teams.
NOVA training is a 5 week course held every year. These five sessions will begin at 8:30 a.m. and conclude by 5:30 p.m. Early registration is $300. After March 22nd, the registration fee will be $350. This fee covers materials and lunch for those days. Registration forms can be downloaded at www.bgct.org
Pastoral Care
Training This 8 week program meets once a week for three hours. Training is open to both professional ministers and lay church members. The program provides a special emphasis on providing ecumenical ministry in healthcare settings. Class size is limited. Pre-registration and a non-refundable fee of $25 are required.
Questions regarding services may be directed to the main office (956) 389-1194 or to karen.smith@valleybaptist.net