CHRISTUS Spohn Health System celebrates 50 years of clinical pastoral education

CHRISTUS Spohn Health System marked 50 years of its clinical pastoral education (CPE) residency program with a jubilee celebration today and an agreement with Stark College and Seminary to offer a new Master of Divinity program.

The CPE program is a theological based education training that equips clergy, imam, seminarians and lay people of all faiths to provide spiritual care in any setting, including hospitals.

“This program is committed to supporting our vision to care for the whole person, no matter their health conditions and cultural and religious backgrounds,” said the Rev. Chris Okoli, CPE director with CHRISTUS Spohn Health System.

Spiritual care is available 24/7 at each CHRISTUS Spohn health care facility.

“CPE within CHRISTUS Spohn Health System demonstrates the importance and sustained value of medical education and formation programs within our health system,” said Mary Davis, group director of clinical pastoral education for CHRISTUS Health System. “We are immensely grateful for the vision and support of CHRISTUS Health in sustaining a CPE program for 50 years. This is truly a remarkable milestone, and we give thanks for its beginnings.”

CHRISTUS Spohn Health System offers several CPE programs: year-long residency, summer internship, an online course and a certified education program.

In addition, Stark College and Seminary has signed an agreement with CHRISTUS Spohn Health System to partner to offer a new Master of Divinity program. The program is designed to provide students with comprehensive theological education and hands-on clinical training, preparing them to become an impactful chaplain.

"Our partnership with CHRISTUS Spohn represents a significant milestone in practical theological education,” said Brent Rempel, Ph.D., senior director of graduate programs at Stark. “This degree not only offers rigorous academic training but also immerses students in real-world clinical settings, ensuring they are well-prepared for a career in chaplaincy.”

Upon completion of the dual enrollment program, graduates will receive two degrees: a Master of Arts in Ministry and a Master of Divinity, along with four units of CPE.

“CPE residents contribute significantly to the expansive provision of spiritual care and chaplaincy offered within CHRISTUS Spohn Health System,” Davis said. “In their learning and ministry, they truly fulfill our mission to extend the healing ministry of Jesus Christ.”