Brendan Egan
A Journey of Returning, Deepening, and Healing. For Brendan Egan, his first encounter with Clinical Pastoral Education came at age 25 during seminary training. Even then, he sensed that CPE…
Finding Her Ministry Voice in Regional Victoria
For Tanya Walker, an ordained minister in the Uniting Church, undertaking Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) was more than a program requirement; it was a deeply transformative step in her formation for ministry. Having heard from peers how valuable and stretching CPE had been for them, she felt drawn to the Northeast CPE Program, particularly because of its strong regional focus. “Living and ministering in regional Victoria, it was important for me to train within the same context I serve,” she reflects.
A Learning Community Shaped by Trust and Presence
Over 22 weeks, Tanya travelled to Bendigo each week for education days led by two experienced supervisors. This consistent face-to-face rhythm helped the group form genuine bonds and a strong sense of trust.
“That continuity allowed us to give fully of ourselves,” she says. “Our supervisors created an environment where deep learning, honest reflection, and shared vulnerability were not only possible but encouraged.”
Her practical placement, supported by a dedicated supervisor, became a space of rich learning and real-life application.
Skills for Ministry and for Life
Tanya describes the CPE experience as foundational to her ministry today. The focus on being a listening presence has transformed the way she approaches pastoral encounters, personal relationships, and everyday interactions.
“I use what I learned in CPE every day. The skills aren’t theoretical; they shape how I enter a room, how I listen, how I accompany people in moments of vulnerability.”
One of the most meaningful aspects for her was the privilege of hearing patients share their stories in profound ways. “Some encounters will stay with me forever. Being invited into those moments was an honour.”
Growing in Self-Awareness and Spiritual Depth
Group learning, theological reflection, and honest dialogue helped Tanya develop a deeper awareness of her own spirituality. “The sessions challenge you to go deep, and in doing so, you discover something deeper in yourself too.”
The process of theological reflection became especially significant for her, offering a way to bring scripture, faith, and lived experience into conversation.
Encouraging Others to Step into the Journey
Tanya encourages anyone preparing for ministry or involved in pastoral or spiritual care to consider CPE essential to their formation.
“It equips you with skills no other theological program offers. It may well shift how you see ministry; it certainly did for me.”
Her advice? Come with openness, honesty, and a willingness to share of yourself. “If you offer yourself fully, you’ll gain the fullness of the experience.”
A Strong Advocate for Regional CPE
Tanya is passionate about the continuation of regional CPE programs. “Rural ministry contexts are different from the city. Regional hospitals and aged-care settings have their own needs and rhythms. Training regionally matters both for the communities we serve and for the students learning within them.”
