Chaplains: Our Colleagues in Frontline Ministry

By Dawn Taloyo, Director of Pastoral and Congregational Health, PacNWC

Recently I had the opportunity to sit down with about 8 of our PacNWC chaplains. These colleagues are ministering in settings ranging from hospitals, hospice services, recovery houses, police and fire stations, and the military. As one reported: “I serve one of the largest ‘Covenant Churches’ in the conference,” as he is the only chaplain in a community of several thousand.

These ministers are serving on the front lines, often interfacing with individuals and families in the critical moments of life, if not life and death situations. They have my utmost respect as they navigate each day of work not knowing what they are walking into each time they enter the hospital room or knock at someone’s door. They are full of stories – some painful and some hilarious – as they interface and care for people from all walks of life. And, they maintain hearts of compassion and conviction in the midst of it all.

With that intro, I want to encourage two things: First, remember our chaplains and pray for them. Pray not only for their well-being, but for the opportunities they have to express God’s light and love each day, often with people who would not consider walking into one of our churches.

And, second, I was inspired by these colleagues and the resources they are to our churches.  Over lunch the group expressed how they would love the opportunity to offer their experience and expertise to our church communities.  They not only have the Biblical and theological training required of all our credentialed clergy, but a variety of other areas of expertise given their contexts.

A quick brainstorm included topics such as advanced planning documents; Stephen’s Ministry continuing education; crisis care; addressing spiritual pain; relational evangelism; and suicide and sexual assault intervention, just to name a few ideas. So, I encourage you to talk with one of our chaplains and invite their partnership and teaching in your outreach, community-building, or formational activities.