CREDO: A Remarkable Opportunity
I am aware that a large number of clergy in this diocese have been, or will be soon, invited to participate in CREDO. Some of you have undoubtedly been once, but I would like to encourage you to participate if at all possible.
CREDO stands for Clergy Reflection, Education, and Discernment Opportunity. It’s a program of the Church Pension Fund, and unfortunately only open to those who participate in the pension program. The program has evolved in recent years to serve different cohorts (relatively newer clergy; retired clergy; Spanish-speaking; bishops, etc.). It is an 8-day retreat, during which each person is invited to develop or re-evaluate a rule of life, looking at the condition of one’s own vocation, physical, mental, spiritual, and financial health. Faculty are selected for their expertise in at least one of those areas and their ability to assist or coach participants in defining their personal goals and strategies to meet them.
Participants have an opportunity to build relationships with clergy from other parts of the Episcopal Church and in varied vocational environments. Spanish-language CREDO is offered, as well as special focus CREDO retreats for clergy in recovery and married clergy couples. The program uses evidence-based methods and conducts ongoing evaluation of its effectiveness.
This is a remarkable opportunity for health in most aspects of life, and I would strongly encourage you to answer the invitation when it comes. Nearly all of the cost is paid by the Pension Fund, as a benefit to participants. I believe there is a modest registration fee, which could appropriately be paid from continuing education funds. If you need financial assistance, please ask – some diocesan funds are available. I participated as a fairly new bishop, and again about six years later. It was a remarkable gift! A number of clergy in this diocese have participated, and if you want to hear personal testimonies, you have only to ask!
More info is here: https://www.cpg.org/active-clergy/learning/credo/
