“When I was ill, you visited me”
Matthew 25:36
In the fall of this year I received my Board Certification as a Chaplain of which I have pursued through study and clinical pastoral education for the past eight years. So what does a chaplain do? And what impact does that imply for Little Flower?
The following is an excerpt from The National Association of Catholic Chaplains which I believe sums it up rather nicely:
The core of the chaplain’s ministry is being a compassionate, pastoral presence to those who are suffering and to those who serve as caregivers, such as family and staff. Chaplains hear an incredible array of life stories in their daily ministries. A chaplain assesses the spiritual care a patient might need, provides spiritual care programs and services, facilitates ethical decision-making, is part of interdisciplinary care teams, and works with other leaders to cultivate a culture of spirituality within the organization which he or she serves. The work of a Chaplain is a richly blessed and rewarding ministry.
So what does that mean for the parishioners of Little Flower parish?
Part of our Mission statement is to “give witness to the Gospel and serve those in need”. This is the “Pastoral” part of my job title. As a Chaplain I am in service to those who are in need of hope and encouragement within their circumstances. How? I am a person who will provide spiritual insights on how to cope with constant change and any anxieties or nervousness one might have with life situations. In my own life I have had many trials and sufferings of which I could not have gotten through if it was not for my faith and relationship with God. I received a calling to become a Chaplain for that very reason, to share my spiritual experiences with others in order to become hopeful, that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I believe in today’s world we need others to help us realize God and become increasingly aware of God at work in our life. This is a way for me to live out the Vision and Values of the Little Flower by helping you become Disciples in your actions and your words if you so desire. God has made such a profound difference in my way of living and I would just like to share that with you.
Becoming a Chaplain was a big deal in my life. What is your big deal in your life? How do you witness to God? How do you experience God in your life? Where do you find refuge and healing?
There is a great book out called, “Living at God’s Speed, Healing in God’s Time by Charles W. Sidoti.
moments of revelation by sharon 