How do I apply for the next training?
You can access the application forms on our web site.
When is the application deadline?'
Answer: Applications will be reviewed as they are sent in and are accepted year-round. Admissions deadline for the 2009-2010 educational year is May 21, 2010.
How do I enroll in the training?
First, The Center screens all applicants. After returning a completed application, you will be notified by Center staff and told whether or not you will be scheduled for an in-person interview. Acceptance into the program is based on your application and interview. In-person interviews are scheduled as applications are reviewed.
What if I am not a Buddhist?
In addition to practitioners from all streams of Buddhism, the Center considers applications from individuals of various faiths who have a meditation practice/prayer practice and who share our commitment of bringing together contemplative practices, caregiving and social action.
2009/10 Scheduled Dates
Trainings are held primarily on Saturdays, and occasionally on both Friday and Saturdays, from 9:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m, September 2010 through June 2011.
2010/11 Training Dates:
2010: September 10 + 11, October 2, November 6, December 3 + 4 ; 2011: January 8, February 5, March 4 + 5, April 2, May 7, June 3 + 4.
Where does the training take place?
At Village Zendo, 588 Broadway, Suite 1108, NYC, NY 10012.
How much does the training cost?
There is a tuition fee of $2,550 to defray costs of this training. A limited number of partial work exchange scholarships may be available. You may also want to explore the option of having either an organization or friends and family sponsor you.
What is the participant commitment?
Participants commit to attending 10 Training weekends, completing 100 hours of volunteer chaplaincy, attending monthly support groups, visiting various religious centers, completing reading reports & written reflection essays, and consulting with a supervisor each month of the training.
Where do I do my volunteer caregiving?
Participants may serve at hospitals, hospices, and other health centers. Those in the New York City metro area are placed either at Visiting Nurse Service Hospice or Beth Israel Medial Center. Those at a distance (from other states to international student) are responsible for obtaining a position as such.
Do I need to have caregiving experience?
No. This is an introductory training program. Each of us has the capacity to embrace the suffering of another person and the ability to provide compassionate care to another.
What if I live on the West Coast? Are there other Trainings available? Yes. The Sati Center for Buddhist Studies, in Redwood City, CA, has a wonderful Introductory Buddhist Chaplaincy Training Program. Please inquire at www.sati.org.
Will this training qualify me for a full-time job as a chaplain?
No, and yet it does qualify you to continue in our ACPE Buddhist CPE Chaplaincy Training Program. Professional chaplains are trained and credentialed by several organizations, and most employers require this credential. Our Foundations in Buddhist Contemplative Caregiving Training Program, however, can serve as preparation and discernment for people considering careers in professional chaplaincy and other caregiving professions. For more information about professional chaplaincy, contact the Association of Professional Chaplains at www.professionalchaplains.org and the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education, Inc. at www.acpe.edu. Our CPE Training is ACPE accredited.
