With nearly two decades in Catholic Education, teaching Music and Religious Studies, Rob Copas believed he was an effective pastoral carer who brought strong instincts to his chaplaincy role. But the Clinical Pastoral Education course (CPE) helped him see pastoral care in a whole new light, and that there was so much more to learn.

The course emphasises the power of intentional, empathetic presence – being fully there for someone, not to fix their problems, but to truly listen.

“I learned to hear the emotion behind the words,” Rob explains. “To notice non-verbal cues, and to listen with empathy.”

Grounded in Christian theology, CPE explores how pastoral listening reflects the love of God, who hears the prayers of His people. Rob was especially struck by the reminder that Jesus modelled complete presence and compassion in every encounter. The course also invites deep self-reflection – growing in self-awareness and understanding personal drivers and triggers, key elements for effective pastoral care.

One of Rob’s biggest takeaways?

“That real pastoral care is not about offering solutions or ‘fixing it’, but about being fully present, creating space for others to feel heard, valued, and loved.”

Whether you’re new to pastoral care or seeking to deepen your practice, the CPE course offers a life-changing journey of self-awareness, spiritual growth, and relational ministry.

The CPE Introductory Course is conducted over five days (40 hours) and is run by the Hunter CPE Centre at Mackillop Parish Centre, Charlestown, and other locations in the Diocese.

For enquires or to discuss group bookings, contact Fr Roger Zohrab E: [email protected] or M: 0418 438 649.