GLBT Network of ACPE

The Association for Clinical Pastoral Education, Inc.

The GAY / LESBIAN / BISEXUAL / TRANSGENDER (GLBT) NETWORK of the ACPE

The GAY / LESBIAN / BISEXUAL / TRANSGENDER (GLBT) NETWORK has existed within ACPE for many years and seeks to provide SUPPORT to gay and lesbian persons within ACPE, to offer EDUCATION to all members of ACPE with respect to gay and lesbian issues, and to provide ADVOCACY for gay and lesbian persons within ACPE. ACPE has taken a prophetic and courageous stand of inclusiveity for gay and lesbian persons at every level within the organization. At the same time, many gay and lesbian persons within ACPE and their friends experience challenging responses both within our organization and beyond, which impact their ability to function fully and wholly. The Network exists to aid ACPE and its members in welcoming and utilizing the gifts of all its members, regardless of sexual orientation.

SUPPORT: The GLBT Network takes a supportive role in ACPE by providing spaces for lesbigay persons and their friends to find support and encouragement. This is accomplished by offering hospitality and an opportunity to conduct the business of the Network, at national and local gatherings of the ACPE community. The convenor of the Network and regional reps are available for support and care to any within our organization who need an understanding ear around issues of sexuality and CPE.

EDUCATION: The GLBT Network exists, in part, to assist in ongoing education for the ACPE. We are available for consultation to students and supervisors, and may be resources for didactic presentations in CPE programs. In addition, members of the GLBT Network may offer workshops at Regional or National meetings to address educational needs of the wider ACPE.

ADVOCACY: The third purpose of the GLBT Network is to address any structural issues or policy concerns in ACPE which may impact lesbigay members or their friends. The advocacy function in the Network also extends beyond ACPE to include outreach and networking with members of pastoral care cognate groups. Members of the GLBT Network may provide collegial support and networking with members of those cognate groups to further enhance our mutual mission.

GLBT Network Representatives:

Eastern Region: The Rev. James B. Jeffery, 30 The Circle, East Hampton, NY 11937-2725; jbjeff@hamptons.com

Northeast Region: The Rev Mary Beth Hayes, The Chaplaincy Center, 593 Eddy St, Gerry House 36, Providence, RI 02903.
(401) 444-8356; Fax: (401) 444-3197; marybethhayes@cox.net

Pacific Region: The Rev Kelli M. Shepard, Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center, Spiritual Care, 1111 E McDowell Rd,
Phoenix , AZ 85006-2612; (602) 239-4382; kelli.shepard@bannerhealth.com

Pacific Region: Birte Beuck, UCSF/Mt. Zion Medical Center, 1600 Divisadero, #1655, San Francisco, CA 94143, (415) 885-7785;
birte.beuck@ucsfmedctr.org

Northeast Region: The Rev Charles W. Kessler Jr., 12 Waldeck St., Boston, MA 02124-2110.
(401) 444-8356; Fax: (401) 444-3197; RevCKessler@aol.com