Clergy Coaching Canada- Let’s talk to Rev Ilze Kuplens- Ewart

Who are you?
Like you, I’m a rostered Eastern Synod pastor, but I’m recently retired,. Over the years I’ve been in parish ministry I’ve served small, large, and multiple site congregations. I have a family, and now grandchildren. I love the church, but at times it, and ministry, has driven me crazy.

My relationship with God and living out my call has been key to my ministry. It’s sent me in some amazing directions.

What is coaching? 

Faith-based coaching is what I offer. I’m here to listen carefully, to help you work through the issue that’s bothering you, so you can find a way forward. 

At times I’ll be challenging you, but all in the context of supporting you as you listen to the Spirit’s prompting.

I hold my clients in my prayers.

Why would a rostered leader engage a coach?

Being a pastor is a pretty lonely calling. We all get stuck at times, and need someone we can open up to freely to share our ideas and feelings with. What will help you is not someone to tell you what to do, or advise, or take your side, but someone who can help you see how your gifts and abilities, and the other resources you have available to you, can  help you move forward.
And now, post Covid? The church is going to be different. How are you going to shape a path through this and lead your congregation in doing so?

How does coaching benefit the pastor/congregation?

I truly believe faith-based coaching makes for stronger and more aware leaders. Coaching opens you up to a different way of seeing your ministry.

What is the time commitment? 

That’s up to you. Each session is around 45 minutes. You set the pace, the frequency of sessions, and that depends on your needs at any given time.

What has your experience been with coaching?

I was coached when I was stepping into the role of Area Dean. 

What I learned about myself and
the confidence I gained from having someone help me understand my gifts and what and how I needed to develop was amazing.  Being coached showed me what a gift coaching can be for ministry.

What training have you had?

I’ve had the privilege of training with the ELCA where clergy coaching, and coaching in general has been in place for over twenty years. Their training programme is affiliated with the International Coaching Federation. I have completed training at Basic 1 and 2 levels, Team coaching, and most recently at the Associate Certified Coach level. I’m now working to accrue the needed hours for certification as an ACC coach.  I am a member of the International Coaching Federation.

I am also a member of Spiritual Directors International.

Is coaching considered an eligible group benefit or continuing education expense?
The answer is yes on both counts! ELCIC Group Services has confirmed that expenses incurred to secure certified coaching are eligible for reimbursement from both the ELCIC Continuing Education Plan and the Group Benefits Lifestyle Spending Account.

The current fee is $75 per session with a reduced rate if 4 sessions are paid for in advance.