Diving Deeper: Take the Plunge!

Building on the experience of supervised pastoral education and reflective practice in ministry, Diving Deeper (the Niagara Internship in Reflective Pastoral Practice) will help participants grow, enhance their awareness of themselves as pastoral care givers, deepen skills in theological reflection, and extend practical skills for ministry.  

Under the direction of Lori Edey, the program offers 200 hours of supervision over 25 weeks (8 hours per week each Friday).  Lori holds a Doctor of Ministry degree and brings a wealth of pastoral and educational experience in clinical, congregational, and counselling settings. She is a Registered Psychotherapist with a private practice as an educator and counsellor, specializing in clergy, religious, and physicians.  A former CPE supervisor, she also developed and led a Professionalization and Physician Self-Awareness curriculum for McMaster University's medical school.

“Whether you have been engaged in pastoral ministry for years or are in the process of formation, this program will assist you to become more intentional and effective in ministry,” observed Steve Hopkins, Archdeacon for Ministry Leadership and Development.  "I did CPE with Lori Edey and it was one of the best learning experiences of my life! And because those insights and skills have been so important to me since, I’m delighted the diocese is offering all of us this opportunity to go deeper and grow in pastoral ministry."

Designed for between three and seven participants, the program will begin on November 11, 2016 and end next year in the middle of June.  All participants are required to be engaged in pastoral ministry for a minimum of eight hours each week.  In some cases, on-site supervision may be required, especially for candidates in the ordination process or for those beginning a pastoral ministry. Diocesan Leadership Development Grants are available to help offset the $1500 cost of the program.  

Those who are interested in applying can download an application form here. The deadline for applications is September 21 and will be followed up by an interview. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance in the program before Thanksgiving. 

For more information, please email Steve Hopkins.