As a double major working toward a masters of pastoral ministry and a doctorate in health care ethics, I found the clinical internships required by both programs invaluable. I have recently graduated with a Doctor of Health Care Ethics degree where I completed four clinical internships at area hospitals. I have also completed one of two required CPE's for my ministry degree. That experience was one of the most profound. I engaged in the CPE over the summer of 2005. By that time I was nearing the end of my doctoral study, so I entered the clinical pastoral education experience with a considerable amount of clinical time under my belt. I was faced with situations where I had to adjust my focus and purpose for engaging the patient, family, or staff member. I found it to be an enlightening and rewarding experience. I have received letters of appreciation and inspiration from patients or family members with whom I spent precious time. During my summer internship I was faced with two particular situations where I had to make use of both my pastoral and ethics training to help the patient and family navigate difficult situations. The experience only strengthened my resolve that all of us who have chosen a health care profession of any sort must seek out educational and training experiences that will equip us all to address the "patient as person" by considering the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of that particular patient, family, or co-worker.

- Jessica A. Moore