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 Two sessions · Dates coming soon

Pastoral Care, Compassionate Companioning & Spiritual Self-Awareness

The Art of Presence

Registration Coming Soon

About the Program

Presence can be one of the most meaningful gifts we offer someone facing grief, illness, or uncertainty. Rooted in the spirit of Clinical Pastoral Education, this two-session virtual training invites participants to practice attentive listening, compassionate companioning, and reflection on the care they offer others.

When someone is facing grief, illness, or uncertainty, we may not have the right words. We can still offer the gift of being fully present.

In this two-session virtual training, participants will practice listening with care, responding with compassion, and reflecting on how their own beliefs and experiences shape the support they offer.

What You’ll Explore

Through guided reflection and practical exercises, you’ll explore what it means to be fully present with others, and how to care for yourself as you care for them.
❋ The ministry of presence
❋ Spiritual self-awareness
❋ Active listening and reflective responses
❋ Holding space through grief, illness, and crisis
❋ How faith and beliefs shape our care
❋ Caring for yourself as a caregiver

Meet the Facilitator

Rev. Alisa Hovagimian Unell is the Program Manager at Crossroads of Caring and a Board Certified Chaplain. She serves in hospital and outpatient neuro-palliative care settings in Rochester. Alisa brings her experience in spiritual care and education to The Art of Presence, inviting participants to reflect on what it means to listen deeply and accompany others with compassion.

Program Details

Dates

Coming Soon

Time

4:30 PM - 6:00 PM Eastern

Location

Online

Cost

$125

  • Do I need CPE or chaplaincy experience?

    No. The Art of Presence is rooted in the spirit of Clinical Pastoral Education, but you do not need prior CPE or chaplaincy training to participate. The sessions are designed for anyone who wants to listen more attentively and offer compassionate support to others.

  • What if I miss a session?

    The sessions will not be recorded. Because reflection, conversation, and practicing presence together are central to the program, we encourage you to attend all live sessions to get the most from the experience.

  • What can I expect during the sessions?

    Each session includes guided reflection, conversation, and opportunities to practice attentive listening and compassionate responses. You’ll be invited to learn from your own experiences and from others in the group.

  • Can I pay by check?

    If you'd prefer to register by mail, you're welcome to send a check instead of registering online.

    • Amount: $125 (for all three sessions)

    • Payable to: Crossroads of Caring, Inc.

    • Memo line: Storytelling Program

    • Mail to: Crossroads of Caring, Inc., St. Mark’s and St. John’s Episcopal Church, 1245 Culver Rd, Rochester, NY, 14609

    Please be sure to include your name, email address, and phone number with your check so we can confirm your registration and send you the Zoom sign-up details.

  • What is your refund/cancellation policy?

    This program requires a minimum of 6 participants to run as scheduled. If the minimum enrollment isn't met, the program will be moved to a new date, and all registered participants will be notified. If the new date doesn't work for your schedule, we will issue a full refund.

    Because this is a live program with limited registration, refunds cannot be provided if you are unable to attend the scheduled sessions. However, all sessions will be recorded and made available to registered participants to watch at their convenience.

  • How will I receive my Zoom link?

    After purchasing your ticket on our website, you'll receive a follow-up email inviting you to register for the sessions through Zoom. Once you register there, Zoom will send you your personal, unique link to join each session.

Interested in joining us?

Dates and registration details are coming soon. Check back for updates or contact us to learn more.

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