New Undertaking-CPE

Today, dear readers, is a big step for me. I am enrolled in a section of congregation-based CPE (Clinical Pastoral Education). I'm not really sure what to expect with it, since I'm not familiar with CPE outside the context of a nursing home or hospital.

Here's what I hope to accomplish with the program:

1. Really explore my strengths and weaknesses. I especially want to find a away to use my shortcomings for Christ's kingdom. What I mean by that is I want to find ways to use my whole being in service to Jesus.

2. To acquire a better understanding of systems and church/congregational dynamics.

3. To better my skills in general pastoral ministry. Some areas I'd like to improve through CPE are counseling, teaching, and preaching.

I know that last one sounds kind of generic, but it really is true. The main part of that lst one is the counseling aspect. I've only been in ministry for a year or so. Thus, not too many people come to see me. But when they do, I'd like to be a little more preapred than I am now.

So please keep me in your prayer, dear readers. Pray that I will grow through the experience.

One final note: I am not sure how much posting I can do regarding what I am learning. Confidentiality is a HUGE deal inministry. I'll try to keep you updated, but please know that these updates will be very generalized.