James Duke’s Post

ARMY Extended Clinical Pastoral Education (ECPE) I wasn't expecting the huge response I received to my post several months ago about extended CPE in the Army and my class beginning in August. So many inquired that I will have eight instead of six students - be careful what you ask for. The class includes AD Army chaplains from all over the world. My next class is a hybrid class, which means a one-week intensive at Fort Liberty beginning 4 December, then on-line CPE until mid-May 2024. I look forward to going back to Airborne country in December (I wonder if they let retired 67-year-old paratroopers jump? 😎). You don't have to be stationed at Fort LIberty to sign up, if you don't mind coming TDY (or on your own dime) for the intensive week. Please contact the POC at USACHCS if you're interested or pass this message on to those who would be interested. CH (COL) Ibraheem Raheem - ibraheem.a.raheem.mil@army.mil They should've done this years ago.

CPE for Army Chaplains. The U.S. Army Chaplain Center and School offers Clinical Pastoral Education as accredited by ACPE to Army chaplains. I have facilitated two hybrid units of CPE at Fort Bragg and Fort Bliss, where a one-week intensive is followed by a few months of on-line CPE. The clinical work is done in the chaplain's unit of assignment - a great way to do CPE that should have been developed 20 years ago. My NEXT CLASS will be all on-line (no intensive) and begins in mid-August and goes until mid-December. To enroll, contact the USACHCS POC, CH (LTC) David Ward. david.l.ward40.mil@army.mil I look forward to assisting the current generation of Army chaplains improve their pastoral care skills.

I read here today a familiar story to me and my own story as well. Many military chaplains over the past 38 years found themselves in their best calling (military chaplaincy) only after experiencing rejection, even abuse, in the local church. It was the best thing that ever happened to me. The Lord used that very event in 1988 to move us from the local church and the national guard to 27 years of active duty and now 7 at the VA. Indeed, the Lord moves in mysterious ways. “I know the plans I have for you…”

My son in law is a creative and amazing man. Also an awesome husband and dad. I could not have done better had I taken resumes and interviewed suitors for my equally amazing daughter. So proud.

Thought of all the great military and VA medical people I have deployed with and prayed with over the last 30 years. They are my heroes.

I ran the Army Ten Miler with my bride today and 35000 of our closest friends. Not bad for an old retired Army chaplain #motivation #chaplain #veterans

ACPE Clinical Pastoral Education. Are you a Veteran with a MDIV and a heart for VA ministry or do you know someone who is? San Antonio and Houston VAs are looking for full time students for the 2020-21 academic year. Interested in a first year Residency or Second year Specialty? Send me an email if interested in either city or both. I’ll send you info on stipends and how to apply. James.duke2@va.gov. James E Duke. ACPE Certified Educator and retired Army chaplain.