And yet, as a part of your development and seminary process, you will be encouraged to encounter things you consider not adding to your formation. In truth, you may not know what it has or has not added for a long time. I genuinely encourage you to reflect and keep trying. We never know what helps.
I didn't say I was elevated above you, merely that we are not peers. Your peers are your fellow seminarians and your CPE cohort. My peers are fellow board certified chaplains. I said that we are equal before Christ. I genuinely feel some reflection on why you need us to be peers would be revealing.
I would gently add that you have approached this conversation as an expert, rather than a learner. There may be a better opportunity for you to approach this process through curiosity, rather than assurance. Maybe try not responding with facts, but sitting the questions. bsky.app/profile/farr...
I'm exceedingly aware I'm no expert. I haven't claimed to be. I've only offered my own reflections on my experience and the material presented to me in class. Our exchange has honestly added to my impression that CPE is a poor fit for priests-in-training. There's no reasons professional hospital
chaplains and priests should be trained the same way when their ministries are so different. In the end, I'm deeply thankful for your ministry, and pray that the next time I'm in the hospital I have someone as faithful as you to visit me. Prayers, my friend.
Prayers for you too, and hopes that you will become more comfortable with death for the sake of the people in your care. Whether we are in the church, the hospital, or in life we are challenged to sit with mortals and help with their end. I pray that God's grace and love guide you well.