As many Australians enjoyed a holiday break, two Divine Word Missionary students from Dorish Maru College have spent their summer in Melbourne’s hospitals, completing their Clinical Pastoral Experience.

Neftali Velasco Fabian SVD from Mexico and Cuong Quoc Dang SVD from Vietnam, who are training to be missionary priests, have been learning how to support patients in hospital – all during one of the most challenging periods for our healthcare system, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The pandemic has certainly been a challenge to everyone,” says Neftali, who has been completing his CPE at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre.

“The patients are having a really hard time. No visitors are allowed in the wards; with the exemption of those who are at the end of life. Therefore, as a spiritual carer, I have focused much on emotional support.”

Neftali says he considers the CPE as one of the best learning experiences in my life.

“There is so much richness in it. Above anything else, I have discovered incredible things about myself. Also, I have learned how to put some of my talents into practice in order to provide support from a creative approach,” he says.

“Moreover, during the past three months I have been working alongside amazing people. I have learned so much from them too. The spiritual care team is composed by people from different backgrounds. I learned how to be always opened to new experiences.”

Neftali says what he has loved the most about his CPE is the opportunity to make connections and establish relationships with people.

“Also, being able to hear people’s stories is an honour to me,” he says.

“Working with cancer patients is not easy. It involves a lot of emotional and spiritual strength. I have dealt with all kinds of experiences: illness, sadness, death, grief, helplessness, etc. However, I have also encountered people who shared their happiness of receiving good news, such as going home or being able to defeat cancer after a long journey of suffering. Overall, it has been a rewarding experience.”

Cuong, who has been at The Austin Hospital, says that completing the CPE has not been easy during the pandemic.

“I have to follow the protocols of the hospital, particularly wearing the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Wearing ,a face mask and face shield is mandatory for me to go to see patients,” he says.

“This is not only personally difficult but also has an effect on the quality of conversations. Some patients, particularly those who have hearing problems, find it difficult to communicate because they can’t hear what I am saying. So, I need to speak louder than usual so that patients are able to get my words.

“Moreover, the outbreak of coronavirus during Christmas partially interrupted our CPE program. Several activities have been postponed or changed. While morning reflection has been stopped education days have been virtually delivered. “

Despite those challenges, Cuong says CPE has been a valuable experience in his vocation journey.

“CPE has created for me the opportunity to enter and be with patients who are regarded as vulnerable,” he says. “They can also be considered as marginalised because the pandemic means no visitors are allowed to enter the hospital. This has negative impact on their feelings and their bond with their families.

“I find this ministry meaningful as I am able to become their visitor among their loneliness. My presence is much appreciated by many patients.

“Moreover, the CPE unit is an opportunity for me to see the image of God among suffering. I experience God as the Encourager as I receive a lot of encouragement and gratitude to my vocation from many patients. Overall, CPE is tough but it is fruitful.”

Cuong says the part he has enjoyed most during his CPE has been his visits with the patients.

“Going to see patients helps me to realise that patients not only physically suffer but also face external wounds,” he says.

“Facing their hidden stories, I share my compassion, empathy and especially my presence with patients. Sometimes, words are not needed but presence takes place. Spending my time with patients helps me a lot in developing my knowledge and skills in pastoral care.”

PHOTOS

TOP RIGHT: Neftali Fabian SVD during his CPE at the Peter MacCallum Institute in Melbourne.

BOTTOM LEFT: Cuong Dang SVD pictured during his CPE at The Austin Hospital in Melbourne.