How to Apply

Application Deadline

The CPE Program at Mercy Health – St. Vincent Medical Center has rolling admissions. Apply early to secure your spot.
Recommended application dates:

• Resident Program – Apply by July 1
• Summer Internship Program – Apply by April 15
• Extended Internship Program – Apply by Sept. 1

Application Requirements

• ACPE application
• Three references via the reference form
• $25 application fee   

Contact Kim McClung (kim_mcclung@mercy.com or 419-251-4650) with any questions regarding the application process. 

After your application file is complete, program staff will review your materials. An interview is required for program admission. 

To apply electronically:

1. Send the completed application document to kim_mcclung@mercy.com
2.  Pay the $25 application fee via the online payment portal
   *Select "CPE – St. Vincent Medical Center (Toledo) - Application Fee" in the class name dropdown menu
3. References should return their forms directly to the CPE Program.

To apply via mail:

1. Send the completed application document and check ($25) to:
   Mercy Health – St. Vincent Medical Center/Spiritual Care Department
   Attn:  Kim McClung
   2213 Cherry Street, 
   Toledo, OH 43608
2. Checks should be made out to “Mercy Health – St. Vincent Medical Center/CPE Dept.”
3. References should return their forms directly to the CPE Program.

Candidate Eligibility

CPE training is open to learners from diverse religious and spiritual backgrounds, socio-cultural identities and life experiences. This ACPE program does not discriminate against persons because of race, ethnicity, religious/spiritual tradition, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age or disability.

At all levels of training, CPE students need to sustain sufficient physical and emotional health to deliver spiritual care. Students must demonstrate the capacity to consistently establish and maintain relationships at significant levels and be open to personal and professional learning, change and growth. CPE students must demonstrate a capacity to endure moderate amounts of stress and chaos, which are expected features of the hospital context. 

Intern Eligibility

Academic: 

• Graduation from high school/completion of a GED (required)
• Training in related field (such as religious or theological studies, counseling, etc.) (preferred)

Residency Eligibility

Academic:  

• Training in related field (such as religious or theological studies, counseling, etc.) (preferred)
• Master's degree in related field (preferred)
• Successful completion of at least one unit of CPE training or equivalent clinical or ministry experience (required)

Experience:

• One year of ministry experience in a congregational or agency setting and/or endorsement by congregational or denominational authority for ministry training (preferred)
• Experience as a chaplain in a health care setting (preferred)