What is Introductory Pastoral Care Course (IPCC)?
What is the aim of the course?
The IPCC aims to equip participants with knowledge and skills to connect, communicate and care for people in a distinctly Christian way. So, people grow their capacity to 'walk' alongside others, especially in times of distress, crises and suffering. It's intentionally introductory and not aimed at a professional level.
As an introductory course it provides a sound foundation for settings like voluntary chaplaincy (e.g. hospital or aged-care residence) or being part of a Christian care team, or other ministries, in a local church. As well as growing a person's own capacity to care for others.
What does the course cover?
The course covers four core aspects that are foundational for caring. They are applicable in a wide range of interactions.
Connecting
We can connect with people in the moment or during a season or as part of growing an ongoing relationship. Central to connecting is the skill of being present with a person.
Communicating
Good communication is essential for good Christian care. Good communication takes a variety of skills not least listening. Listening for understanding, is the primary skill taught and practiced in the course.
Caring
Like communicating, caring wisely and lovingly for others can involve many types of actions and activities. Including knowing what our own limits are and how we can foster the other person's agency in recognising their own resources.
Self-reflection
Self-reflection, is absolutely critical for wise Christian care. Therefore, the process of self-reflection is woven all through the IPCC.
As the IPCC seeks to be distinctively Christian, the course material is anchored in and shaped by Biblical material. Since God has woven his wisdom into how the created world functions, we also utilise insights from the social sciences.
Caring for people in our complex and broken world is not straight forward. Good pastoral care is not about following a 3-step plan. Therefore, participants are encouraged to take the material explored in this course and begin to live it out it imaginatively, creatively and wisely in their particular context.
Inspired by the gospel of reconciliation in Jesus Christ, Anglicare's vision for reconciliation is a nation in which Australia's First Peoples are restored in dignity, respect, empowerment and opportunity.