Chaplain I

Class Concept

Work in this class involves planning, conducting, coordinating or facilitating programs for inter-faith religious services in psychiatric hospitals, developmental disabilities centers, or correctional facilities. The programs may include: worship services, faith group studies, bible studies, individual or group pastoral/ spiritual care or counseling. This role assesses patients/inmates upon admission or transfer to determine if there are pastoral/spiritual care needs. This role may supervise religious/spiritual services provided by volunteers and inmate faith helpers as well as recruit and coordinate religious/spiritual volunteers and services on a continual basis. This role may visit patients in community hospitals; lead or arrange approved religious rites and sacraments such as blots, communion, equinox, baptism, or holy days. Chaplains may coordinate pastoral volunteers.

Recruitment Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Basic knowledge of the principles of clinical pastoral/spiritual care and the role of the chaplain in an institutional setting
• Thorough knowledge of theology
• Ability to plan, organize and develop a comprehensive pastoral/spiritual care program
• Ability to establish rapport with patients/residents/inmates and their families

Minimum Education and Experience

Master of Divinity degree from a school of theology or seminary accredited by The Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and one year of residency in Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) or equivalent professional chaplaincy experience and Ordination or membership in a recognized religious governed body; or

Master's degree in related field from an appropriately accredited institution and one year of residency in Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) or equivalent professional chaplaincy/clergy experience and Ordination or membership in a recognized religious governed body or an equivalent combination of education and experience.: