Transforming Ministry Through CPE: A Journey of Growth and Justice

Rev. MiRhang Baek, Virginia Annual Conference, The United Methodist Church, with spouse Rev. TaeWon Kang.

Participating in the Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) program at the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry’s Center for Integrative Pastoral Practice (CIPP) has profoundly transformed my self-awareness, personal growth and ministry as a UMC pastor. I started CPE because it was mandatory for my ordination process, but I never imagined that this one unit could transform my life so profoundly.

As an ethnic minority female immigrant pastor serving a predominantly white congregation, CPE helped me to realize and articulate specifics about myself and my surroundings. Including seeing and confronting white supremacy, which was always challenging and took a lot of nerve. The CPE group was my small laboratory. When I saw and felt white supremacy in our peer group, I used these moments to learn and grow, pushing myself and peers to engage with racial biases. This process, though exhausting, was empowering and affirmed my commitment to justice.

The tangible impact of my CPE journey is evident in the changes within my congregation. My ministry has become more justice-oriented, addressing systemic issues and emphasizing inclusivity. The shift in our food pantry ministry exemplifies our commitment to a ministry-with approach, focusing on deeper community engagement. We’ve become more actively engaged in anti-racism talks and participating in anti-racism initiatives in our community. We’ve also taken steps to become a more LGBTQ-inclusive congregation.

I started CPE because it was mandatory for my ordination process, but I never imagined that this one unit could transform my life so profoundly.

When I was ordained as an Elder at the Virginia Annual Conference in June 2024, the Board of Ordained Ministry affirmed that “it was clear that CPE work has given her a strong self-awareness of both her strengths and areas for growth.” Indeed! The CPE program has energized and empowered me so that I could apply the lessons learned to my ministry and daily life.

I am grateful to the CIPP team. Their dedication to creating a transformative learning environment has left an indelible mark on me, my ministry and the communities I serve in local churches. As an alum of this program, I am honored to be part of the CIPP’s CPE Professional Advisory Group (PAG), and I look forward to endeavoring together to strengthen the CPE program and witnessing the growth of the center and future students.

For those considering CPE, know that this program offers a profound opportunity for personal and professional growth, equipping you with the skills to make a meaningful impact in your community. Embrace the journey, and you will emerge stronger, more resilient, and ready to face the challenges of ministry with renewed perspective and transformation.

Rev. MiRhang Baek, Virginia Annual Conference, The United Methodist Church

Interested in learning more about GBHEM’s Clinical Pastoral Education Program?  Click here.