Lesson 20 ~ Chaplaincy Studies ~ Final Essay
By: Rev. Trent Murman, OSM, OSF
This Chaplaincy Study Program has opened my eyes to many facets of ministry which I and probably most of us would not have had the pleasure of contemplating or researching. In the beginning I was a bit skeptical about pursuing the course. However, Rev. Amy Long inspired me to continue with it by her words of wisdom that "you can do it" attitude. I thank her for that inspiration. I have a fresh conception of the role of the chaplain within the community. There are many community members that may not have the resources or means to seek out a religious avenue. In my understanding the role of the chaplain is to seek these people out and not change their ways of worship or beliefs, but to guide them, listen to them and provide the comforting ear which so many of them may need.
I have been helping people for the past 40 years which started when I was nineteen and had just joined the military. This part of my life's journey was and is so much a part of my daily life to have the privilege of serving these fine men and women that continuously put themselves in harms way for all us so we may continue to live in the secure nation know and love today. I think it is imperative that all ministers develop their own style of conducting their ministry, but never lose sight of one of our greatest assets is to learn and develop the fine art of listening. It is most important to remember sometimes all some individuals want is just someone to use as a sounding board and this is okay. Granted we are not doctors nor psychiatrists, but we do and should have a good understand of compassion and the will to help/listen to our fellow man, from the small child to the elderly, everyone is most important not only in His eyes but in our own eyes. Keeping in mind that we and our fellow ministers are not "all knowing" it is not only good networking technique but a continued learning process by keeping in touch with our fellow clergy. I have learned that much can be accomplished by drawing from others and them drawing from you own life experiences. Our ministry can be situated in many different places. We are not confined to a physical location such as a church, synagogue or other building, but can actually be anywhere in our travels. It is also interesting to know that His work is not a passing entity in the night. I have discovered that there seems to be a new younger generation growing up closer to God. It is so heartwarming to know that these youngsters and future leaders of this great nation are leaning towards the helping hand of God and are willing to carry out His work. We need to remember a ministry is not limited to a physical location, but all ministers can and I feel are obligated to spread the word of God whenever called upon, whether it be in a parking lot, at an accident scene, nursing home, private home or traveling from state to state. I feel it is our duty to help where it is needed and when it is needed. We don't hang up our collars at 5 pm. A huge part of our responsibilities is to counsel those who are grieving. This is not limited to the dying patient, but many times extends outward to the family members. Unfortunately, many of our elderly and those afflicted with terminal disease may be left in nursing homes. These places can be very depressing and family members tend to think "well the nursing staff is there, they will be okay". This is not always true. It is true the nursing staff is there to attend to their physical needs, but it is not always enough. These patients need the comfort only family members can provide. Wen chaplains visit the sick or dying it is best to allow themselves to show compassion, sincerity and even emotion. We are not cold bricks of ice just going through the motions. We are obligated to help all persons of all faiths. Anointing of the sick is accepted in most faiths and I feel no other clergy member would mind if you tended to their people/followers in their gravest time of need. It is my sole belief that no man, woman or child should pass from this earth to the next part of their journey alone. I know He would not want this and we being an instrument of Him need to comfort and help whenever possible. When performing ceremonies, be sure to research out the clients. Making sure this is what both parties want. No one should enter into a religious contract unfaithfully. Ceremonies are legally binding, not only in the eyes of the law, but in His eyes also. This reaches the part of our ministries known as accountability. All clergy of all faiths are and should be held accountable for everything they do and accomplish in His name sake.
I continued to learn, as everyone should, about different faiths, the positions many clergy take and the responsibility of being prepared for anything i.e., accidents while traveling and performing anointing's and rites at the scene of a disaster. There is a saying I have modified to fit my duties….If when in turmoil, you can keep your head when everyone else is losing theirs God has blessed you and will guide you to do what is right. (Which is the motto of our seminary) In my humble opinion: I found this Chaplaincy Course very well thought out and presented. This course should not be taken lightly. However, an ecclesiastical endorsement when the course is completed would be of great advantage. I believe most Chaplain courses that I have researched offer this to those who complete the course. As I am sure most people who know me are aware my main goal in taking this Chaplaincy course is to further work with our armed forces vets. My military service was a great teaching experience and learning experience of my younger years. I continue to have the utmost respect for our men and women who have and are currently serving in the military. Many times I have often bought lunches or dinners for a group of soldiers I may see in a restaurant without them knowing it was me who paid for their meal. It is an honor to see their faces light up when the waitress/waiter tells them "your meal has been paid for". I also make it a practice to thank them for their service to our country no matter where I see them, i.e., grocery store, shopping center, airport or dining place. I think it is important they feel loved and we should be honored to be in their presence. I also feel my personal motto: No man/woman should die alone. Everyone should be comforted during this passage, if nothing more than to just be there, gently hold their hand, softly talk with them, even if they can't respond to our voices. I believe the hearing is the last to leave our physical body and a soothing voice may help them cross over to their Fathers house. May the Peace of the Lord be with you and everyone in their ministry no matter how big or small it may be. GO IN PEACE
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