Chaplaincy

The day-to-day experiences of chaplains vary greatly depending on the environment in which they minister, and most chaplains would say that no two days look alike because of the dynamic nature of their settings. But one commonality that unites all chaplains regardless of placement and guides their days is their focus on providing a ministry of presence. All chaplains spend their days accompanying people on their spiritual and faith journeys, often bringing the message of God’s grace to places it might not otherwise be heard.

Chaplains work to provide for the spiritual and religious needs of the people they meet, which often includes ecumenical and interreligious accommodations. Daily responsibilities might include planning worship services, coordinating and equipping worship leaders, organizing a memorial service, performing a baptism or providing counsel. Through it all, ELCA chaplains focus on listening to individual needs, demonstrating God’s abundant love and grace by upholding the dignity of every person they meet. Through their public ministry, ELCA chaplains have a hands-on experience of tending to the faith lives of the people they encounter, taking the gospel to daily life environments.

Are you interested in learning more about chaplaincy? Contact Christopher Otten at christopher.otten@elca.org.

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^{Photo courtesy of ELCA Chaplaincy Ministry}