Phoenix VA graduates first Clinical Pastoral Education students
The Phoenix VA graduated five students from the VA's Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) program in the Carl T. Hayden chapel, Nov. 3.
The program is for those seeking to become hospital chaplains. Chaplains are required to complete four CPE programs total, either all at one hospital or different ones of their choosing. Currently the Phoenix VA offers the program via distance learning and in-person.
“It was an amazing program,” said Kelly Felch, Phoenix VA CPE graduate. “We really get to help Veterans and talk to them, get to know them, give them an ear when they have none.”
This class is the first the VA has had in two decades, as the VA is currently rebooting the program and hopes to flesh it out in the coming years. For instance, the Phoenix VA currently plans to make the internship a paid one in the future, making it more competitive than other options, as interns are expected to be in the program full time.
“Give me a moment to share that what we are doing here today is a big deal,” said Fr. Igwenwanne Fidelis, Phoenix VA Chaplain. “What makes this an even bigger deal is that you are the pioneers of this program! Your names are written in the annals of the history of Phoenix VA. For this I say, congratulations! Our newest commissioned chaplains in the whole wide world. Life is like a parachute: it doesn’t work if you do not open. Now your lives our open, go forth!”
Not only do chaplains provide religious services for those seeking them, but they also operate as counselors and patient advocates. The Phoenix VA currently has seven full time hospital chaplains to provide care to Veterans.