What is a chaplain?

The role of a chaplain is often confused with that of a minister. Here are some of the things done by chaplains:

Chaplains assist people of all faiths and those without religious affiliation during periods of crisis in their lives. They assist people in dealing with the questions which arise as they travel along their life paths.

They are all things to all people and do not work within any faith or denomination.

Chaplains are allowed wide access within the hospital and are able to help staff as well as patients and families. They are particularly valuable for patients in crisis or in palliative care, helping them to see that it is all right to die.

Chaplains must have a degree in theology and then receive four years in specialized chaplaincy training.

People have physical, mental, emotional and spiritual needs. When any one of those needs is not being fulfilled a patient is not being fully cared for.