Lesson 1

I converted from 7th Day Advent (Reverends) to Catholic (Priests, Monks, Brothers, Nuns). I studied to become ordained. However, they don't marry, so I postponed. In 2009 I went thru a liver transplant and was visited then. Hospital stays and the Priests would visit me. 

I am thankful to have had them visit me when I was challenged. Having a Pastor/Reverend fills different needs we may have in life.

Master of Chaplaincy Studies lesson 2

Recognizing the calling of the spirit on another's life is more often than not, for me, a subtle thing.  As exampled in the lesson, it often is a unspoken sense, or if I may, an aura about the person, that  first inkling that something is different, special.  I am often drawn to a certain someone in a seemly normal situation. After a few moments in their presence there is an awareness that there is more beneath the surface.  Some may call it kindred spirits.  I think it is more a linking of the Spirit.
 
One person that comes to mind  when I look for an example of true calling. I will call him Dave. He lead my small congregation for many years.  As a man, he had his share of bumps and boils, but still there was that specialness about him that went beyond understanding.  He was a servant leader in every aspect.  His example guides me.
 
Yes, I have had affirmation of a calling.  Just this week I shared with an unlikely group (putting myself out there and expecting ridicule) my course of study.  I received affirmation all around, and especially one lady, even several days later, return ED to me with encouraging words of support.
 
I feel called to a interfaith discipline of chaplaincy. Since very young I have had a burden for the loners of the world.  I empathize with the hurt in the hearts and souls of all people.  I have a strong desire to understand all forms of spirituality and endeavor to find the similarities rather than the differences in our spiritual practices.  I have a strong desire to be a uniter rather than a divider.  I see my position more in the realm of volunteer.  Homeless shelters, soup kitchens, support groups.  Prayers for my growth and success are coveted.

Lesson 17 - Universal Life Church Chaplaincy Program.

Accountability
Personal
Don't lose site of my own life and personal self care.

Professional
Gain a mentor. Someone to guide. And teach me correct me when need be.
Soulfriend a fellow Chaplin of equal years. Someone to lean on talk to identify with.

Active lots of reviews oversite.

Passive leaves most accountability up to the chaplain.

Institution full time / part time placement of chaplins are treated as employees.
Professional org. Seminars group ideals.

Self care
God He is always watching.

I want to be mentored by two women . Rev. Jerri and my 89 yr old minister Rev. Kay
The church is currently moving. The church will be moved next month. I hope to start the mentoring after the move.

Rev Jerri I believe is also Studing to be a Chaplain. Rev Kay was going to retire but changed her mind. Lucky for me.
Rev. Stephanie Westbrook

Master of Chaplaincy Studies Homework

•    Describe someone you know who has the Divine Mark. What set them apart?

I know of a person who has the divine mark, she is incredibly good with others who are in pain, and she has a way of seeing things into the future. She is quite special.  On another front however she is extremely the opposite with some people, those closest to her and it seems almost as if she has the mark of Satan.

•    Has anyone observed the mark in you? Write down what they have said?

People have said that I am the kindest person that they have met, the classes I teach are the best that they have ever taken.  These comments do not come because of what I do but rather the Spirit working in me.

•    Consider your calling. Describe it in a paragraph or two.

My calling is to  bring God to the secular world, the non-believers or barely believing.  I feel that my job is to plant the seeds, to get people to stop and reflect, to LISTEN to God (in the midst of their busy-ness).  Once they have done that then God will take over Himself or by another person that will then take the person to another level.  I am the planter.

Rev. Kolodziej

Re: Lesson 4 – The Chapel – Where One Ministers: Military Part I.

Dick Siner 

Lesson 4 – The Chapel – Where One Ministers: Military Part I.

1.If you know a chaplain in the military, interview them and discover what the military chaplaincy is like. If not, do some additional research on your denomination's representation in the military chaplaincy.

 

This regulation prescribes policies on Total Army religious support activities, religious ministries, Chaplain and Chaplain personnel, Chaplain recruitment, the Chaplain Candidate Program, policy development, mobilization and readiness, training, moral leadership, management of information, logistics, and resources.

Chaplaincy Course Lessons 1 & 2 - Rev. Ashley

 

To:       Rev. Amy Long

From:  Ashley Andrus

Topic: Master of Chaplaincy Studies

            Lessons 1 & 2 Homework

 

Lesson One

 

Q:        Write out a short paragraph or two on what you know of chaplains.

 

A:        I've known about chaplains since I was young child attending a local United Methodist Church in our area. However, back then I didn't know what a chaplain did. I had the idea that it was something similar to what our pastor did but didn't know the specifics.

            Today I understand that a chaplain is someone who visits the ones who are in need of spiritual guidance or someone to listen outside of an assigned church. A lot of these places are in hospitals, nursing homes, hospices, ect.

            Thanks to the lesson, I now know that they can be found in schools, in the military and at truck stops.

 

Q:        Does your faith group or religion have chaplains or not?

 

A:        The only Wiccan chaplains I can think of are the ones in the military. It's not very common to hear of them elsewhere.

 

Q:        What is your view of chaplains and their role in society today?

 

A:        I think chaplains are a very important and integral part of our society today. I think it's great that although the chaplain can hold their own faith they are also knowledgeable and accepting of other faiths around them as well. This would be especially important if they were ministering to a person of another faith without trying to convert them.

 

Lesson Two

 

Q:            Describe someone you know who has the Divine Mark. What set them apart?

A:        I know of two and I think only putting one down as an answer wouldn't be fair to either of them.  It was the assistant pastor. I've known this woman since I was 15 and every time I see her, I can feel this giant glow around her as if the Holy Spirit had been permanently implanted in her. She is a very sincere, friendly and good person. I love her a lot.

            Another woman is one who is the deacon of an Assemblies of God church here in the same area. I was in a very bad time in my life when I first entered the church. There were women who introduced me to a few people and they picked out one woman in particular, telling me that she has a strong faith in God and if I ever had any questions I didn't feel comfortable asking the pastor(who is a great guy, too) I could always ask her

            While I was making my way to my seat, the same woman they talked about, approached me with a big hug, talking in tongues the entire time. She had no idea who I was and immediately prophecied to me. I could feel the heavy, warm glow around her as well. She was indeed touched by the Holy Spirit.

 

Q:        Has anyone observed the mark in you? Write down what they have said.

A:        I remember going to a church with my Mum and we were waiting in the main hall for services. A woman came up to us and asked us if we needed any prayer. So, we bowed our heads and prayed for that circumstance(I can't remember what it was now). The woman said to me, without knowing I wasn't Christian, that I definitely had the Lord in me. Hearing this was really touching.

 

Q:            Consider your calling. Describe it in a paragraph or two.

A:        I have been told that I am a good listener and when advice is needed I usually have the right things to say. Not always things that are wanting to be heard but the outright truth of the situation. I think this thing had been on me for quite some time, I was just too young and self-involved to see it. For a long time I wanted to be a priestess but I had no idea how to go about doing that or what kind of certificates or permission I needed to have.

            A lot of people have helped me along the way. I have grown up with terrible emotional issues that I just could not solve on my own. For a long time I had thought I was Wiccan, however, I was fighting every belief system that was contrary or contradicting my narrow-minded views. I had become what I hated the most. It wasn't until I learned the skill of letting go that I could really become my potential.

            All the icky-ness was stuck to me until I had a nervous breakdown. All those attachments, all those prejudices – gone in less than a day.

            When I had become well after this episode I had decided that I wanted to be happy. I was sorry for the way I had treated the people who had helped me.

            I had a new beginning and decided to make the best of it. And I did. I finally put my faith in God and decided that I can't control everything and there was a reason for that. Finally, I became less cranky and emotional and actually took a turn for the good. Going through mental health awareness and skills classes I learned that life isn't as bad as I had once thought.

            Now I want to be able to not only repay the people who were there for me, even at my worst, but to make them proud by having the ability to help and empathize with others.

            I jumped from one belief system to the next until I found where I can grow the best. I feel so blessed to be chosen by my Goddess and the All Father. This isn't where it ends, though. Wicca isn't where I'm stopping, though. I have been and am studying different religions and belief systems that way I can be the best help as possible to those in need.

            This is what I've always wanted to do as a child. I just reached adolescence and forgot that dream.

 

            But it's here now.

 

 

 

Chaplaincy Studies Lesson One

 Master of the Chaplaincy Studies

 

Write out a short paragraph or two on what you know of chaplains. Does your faith group or religion have chaplains or not? What is your view of chaplains and their role in society today?

 

I grow up catholic and serve as an altar boy. I have learn the ritual of the catholic mass and the funeral mass.

I've seen chaplain in hospital but what there work in till I'm not sure.

 

I'm a chaplain for SMB Holy Royal Arch Chapter 128, Masonic organization.

I believe the minister and chaplain goes hand and hand, but whit the chaplain there stepping more out of the box, especially with the tragic that is going on with the schools all over the state. Counseling all the schools such as the elementary, junior, and high would be something a chaplain would be called upon because of all the shooting that have been taking place.

 

Chaplain's role in today's society is very important because they are there to counsel people no matter where they are located. Chaplain are like preachers, ministers and even priest. The reason why they are a like because they are there to help people with their problem and also in their time of need. For example, a chaplain in a hospital is there to help the family deal with death and even help those believe more in their faith with God.

Lesson #2

Lesson 2        My Calling and Divine Mark

 

Posted Yesterday, 09:25 PM

1) I think of Fr. Ralph DiOrio when I think of someone I know who has the Divine Mark. He has quite a strong Divine charisma that is palpable. When he speaks, the Holy Spirit seems to pour out of him, flood the hearts of all who are near, and those who are listening, with the heartfelt (literally) fire of the Holy Spirit. He has a definite Presence of God.

2) Yes, people have said that I am the best spiritual teacher they have ever had, giving them the most amazing meditations filled with moments close to Christ. This seems so egotistical to say, but it has been told to me, and is the answer to the question asked. When my mother was 16 years old, four years before I was born, she went to a fortune teller who told my Mom she was going to have a daughter, who the fortune teller saw was dressed all in white and was holding a candle. The fortune teller told my Mom to tell me to become a nurse. I did not become a nurse, but I did become a massage therapist and a holistic health counselor, and dressed in a white uniform for eight years. My ministry now is holding the candle. My mother, and my children have told me that they see me doing this work. Mom says I will be very good at it.

3) I have felt my calling since I was born. I have had a strong prayer life all my life, even as a very young girl. I remember being very, very young and having my beautiful mother teach me prayers. We would walk the few blocks to morning Mass every day, and during Lent, we would go to all the special services, including Holy Hour on Sundays. I fell in Love with LOVE. Before I could verbalize what I was feeling, I was FEELING; what I was FEELING was LOVE, GOD. I wanted to share this beautiful LOVE, so I began teaching CCD, while I was still taking CCD classes myself. From that time to now, I have taught every grade from first grade through adult. At 16 years old, I met with Bishop Flanagan (who is since deceased) in the Worcester Diocese in Massachusetts to help plan programs. I still have a picture of me meeting with Bishop Flanagan. Because of my unquelshable thirst for God, I would meet with the parish priest each week for spiritual direction, a protocol usually reserved for those with a "calling" like priests and nuns. This priest also became a Bishop in the Worcester Diocese, Bishop George Rueger, who has since retired, and I found myself traveling 30 minutes to get to spiritual direction. I was, after all, in the Catholic Church and could not become either of these things, a nun - or a priest, with me being married with children. I continued my studies earning a Master Catechist certification in religious instruction, and took a year long Biblical Androgogy Course for a more indepth study of the Old Testament. It was taught by a Jesuit priest. At first I did not like the presentation, because Jesuits tend to tear apart what you are comfortable in knowing about your faith, and what is left over, becomes your new and evolved faith. I did not like anyone messing with "my" theology. In hindsight, this was a beautiful course and a beautiful priest, who had the patience of a saint in dealing with my questions. However, my quest and thirst for getting "more of God," the "It" I was searching for, led me to go on every religious retreat I could find, and in some cases to organized weekends like Cursillos, Marriage Encounters, and even the ultra Catholic Opus Dei, in which I was a supernumary, learning all the doctrine and prayers reserved for priests alone for a couple of years. I have left all of these attempts to put God and people in a box of human understanding, and after much soul searching, and church hopping, and denomination hopping through Protestant Churches and New Age Energy Multidimensional Healing and Transformation classes, becoming a Master of this and a Master of that, I AM blessed with a much greater awareness of consciousness raising, personal transformation, which I believe is part of the entire ascension process, not just for myself, but every one of us who feels the quiet stirring of our hearts to come closer to the All Is One.

 

My blog is my worldwide ministry, and is read in over 120 countries, with over 16,500 hits. Todays post meditates on when Jesus is teaching in Greece (during those missing years of Jesus between the ages of 13-30), Jesus informs the people of his day in Greece, according to the "Aquarian Gospel Of Jesus The Christ*."

"Full well you know that there are parts of earth where its great beating heart throws heavenward etheric waves that meet the ethers from above; where spirit-light and understanding, like the stars of night, shine forth *…

"But I would tell you of a life beyond, within; a real life that can not pass away. In science and philosophy there is no power strong enough to fit a soul to recognize itself, or to commune with God. I would not stay the flow of your great streams of thought; but I would turn them to the channels of the soul.*

"Unaided by the Spirit-breath, the work of the intellection tends to solve the problems of the things we see, and nothing more. The senses were ordained to bring into the mind mere pictures of the things that pass away; they do not comprehend eternal law.*

"But man has something in his soul, a something that will tear the veil apart that he may see the world of real things.*

"We call this something, spirit consciousness; it sleeps in every soul, and cannot be awakened till the Holy Breath becomes a welcome guest.*

"This Holy Breath knocks at the door of every soul, but cannot enter in until the will of man throws wide the door.*

"There is no power in intellect to turn the key; philosophy and science both have toiled to get a glimpse behind the veil; but have failed.*

"The secret spring that throws ajar the door of soul is touched by nothing else than purity in life, by prayer and holy thought.*

 

I feel, (and have always felt), very close to God, and often feel the Presence of the Holy Spirit in my heart. I feel the constant deep abiding Peace that known no bounds.

Namaste.

Lesson #1

Hi Rev. Daniel Moore,

I'm just noticing that you would like the homework assignments sent to this email address. Here is Lesson #1, that I already posted on the ULC Forum Chaplaincy Site too.

 

Posted 15 March 2013 - 04:54 PM

I find it very interesting that while I have not had much exposure to chaplains in my life, outside of the chaplain in the '70's TV show "Mash," I find much of my life's work, and currently with by worldwide blog, that I walk in the footsteps of the chaplain, the keeper of the sacred. I absolutely love that phrase. I had my own massage therapy business for 12 years. I know people came to me in pain, looking for release of this pain, but often would tell me they came because by the end of their session, they felt lighter, happier, and somehow, closer to God. I gave back to the community by holding monthly meditation nights once a month for eight years. People of all faiths, and some with no faith at all, would attend. Although I have had no real life exposure to the work of a chaplain, I believe God opened doors for me to be exactly in this place, at this exact moment in time, to do exactly this work. With my blog: www.lindahourihan.wordpress.com, I reach people in over 120 countries, with over 16,000 hits, in just over one year. This is quite humbling. I think with main stream religions having a hard time filling their churches, and in some cases closing their doors, that the work of being a chaplain is more needed than ever before. I AM looking forward to this incredible journey.

 

Divine Love and Light,

Rev. Linda M. Hourihan, DD

Chaplain Studies Lesson 3 - Rev. Westbrook

My teaching skills are 2nd to none. I find myself teaching others all the time, especially my parents . As far as my scripture knowledge is concerned I am greatly lacking. I have a Bible verse a day emailed to me a day. I am hoping to increase my abilities. Due to my handicap I find I have numerous opportunities to witness to others. My guinea pig Pumpkin is my favorite subject. She has brought strong healing energy to our household. My mothers blood pressure and life long sleep issues are resolving. Dad who due to age was not into pets. During the depression there wasn't money for luxuries like food for animals that would not be eaten. He can't get enough of Pumpkin. Good character that's me. I don't know why but this aspect of my life comes easy. I really don't know what else to say. I do love self help books. Self improvement is my hobby. Being faithful till marriage is an interesting concept. One I will face with future church member's of mine. I need to decide what I will do when I start dating again. (I had major health issues) . No sex. That would push for a commitment or move on by guys I date. The men I date are extra special. Due to my handicap. This should add a new facet. Rev. Westbrook

Chaplaincy Comments from Rev. Dunkel

What I know about Chaplains

Chaplains are found in many places.  Until I read this lesson, I only knew about hospital, hospice, & military chaplains.  Now I know that they can serve almost anywhere, even in shopping centers. Chaplains can be from any religious or spiritual background & serve wherever people might need spiritual counseling or guidance, & help in praying to their higher power or G-d.

 

Reflections – Rev. Leza Dunkel

I have met several ministers in my life that had a true aura of peaceful energy that provoked a profound trust in them & what they said & stood for.  I have been told by a number of people that I would be a wonderful pastor due to my helpful & serene guidance to others.

 

I would like to be able to be available to others on a regular basis to give counsel & help in prayer to whoever a person's divine deity may be called.  I believe that everyone has a right to their own beliefs, as long as they do not push it on others as the only right way to believe.  I want to promote harmony between religions.

 

Master of Chaplaincy Studies – Lesson 3 – Reflections – Rev Leza Dunkel

A self-evaluation of my present skills, strengths, & weaknesses

 

·        Faithful – I am widowed & was faithful to my husband. I am also faithful to my friends & family.

·        Good Character – I am open minded to others beliefs & am not prone to judge others. I believe I am a good person & wish no harm to anything.

·        Good testimony – People who know me, know I am of good character & speak well of my demeanor.

·        Sound in Doctrine – This is an area in which I need to improve. I have studied many different religions, & know a little about a lot of different beliefs. I need to study several religious backgrounds in more depth, & to be able to nail down & speak of my own spiritual beliefs (which are very eclectic), both to myself & to others.

 

·        Able to teach – I am able to teach on tolerance, personal peace, & love of life in general.

I need to do further studies to improve my knowledge of different religions & faiths. I also need to go inside myself to reflect on what it is I truly believe in. This program of study, along with my BA in comparative religion, & other ULC Seminary study programs, will help me on my own spiritual path, & my path to serve others.

 

Master of Chaplaincy Studies – Lesson 4 – reflections – Rev Leza Dunkel

 

Though I have been a member of Religious Science churches for a number of years, I am now drawn towards the Unitarian Universalist faith.

 

When researching these 2 faiths within the military chaplaincy, I found no Religious Science ministers; & only 10 to 20 from the UU community. I am not surprised at these low numbers, because there are probably not many soldiers from these faiths within the military. I am glad, however, that there are a growing number of UU seminary students planning on serving as military chaplains.

 

UU ministers in military service can promote religious tolerance of the different faiths of military personnel, & the combatants that they encounter. In current conflicts in the Middle East, this could be quite helpful due to the religious nature of the conflicts.

Master of Chaplaincy Studies Lesson 1

3. Write out a short paragraph or two on what you know of chaplains. Does your faith group or religion have chaplains or not? What is your view of chaplains and their role in society today?

I know that Chaplains do indeed work towards helping others without their own personal religious or faith bias. I was in the hospital once visiting my husband after a knee surgery and had a decent size conversation over the course of his time in the hospital with the Chaplain. He told me of the training he had at a local school just for Chaplains. We had spoken of our faith belief with him and he was extremely interested as he had not pursued the Wiccan or any Pagan faith for knowledge but was thinking about doing it. Together we learned much of the similarities of the core basic ideas and beliefs we shared. 

My faith group is so varied on what the groups do. When I mentor students for their First Degree Wiccan Clergy in the Tradition, I share all of the wonderful things we are able to do to help others. We serve our fellow Wiccans, Pagans, or anyone needing help. They do not specifically have a Chaplain group that I know of. It would be a great idea though.

I think Chaplains are only remembered during serious disasters and mostly known to Fire, Police, and Hospitals. Today's general public probably doesn't even know or understand what a Chaplain is. If Chaplains were more visible they would inspire others with their ways of un biased love and help for humanity(even animals).

Blessings 

Cheryl Lynn Hewitt

Master of the Chaplaincy Studies - Lesson 1 - Sister Madsen

Universal Life Church Seminary

 

Master of the Chaplaincy Studies

 

Lesson 1

 

When I was young, I thought I new it all;  I Knew nothing. As I matured and put myself into the Lords hands, I have learned more then I ever thought I would ever learn.  But, yet, I don't boast in what I know, as that is between God and I.  I have been moving in many directions as I learn what the Lord wants me to do with the ministry he has called me to.  I am just preparing myself with all the knowledge that is sent my way for the use in His ministry.

 

To be a Chaplain, if this is truly where the Lord leads me, would be a great honor to Him.  I am a better listener then a talker.  I love people and no mater what their faith, I try to be their for them and to listen to their problems.  I have been a Chaplain all of my life and didn't know it.  I have friends of all faiths and ethnic backgrounds and many of them have no where to turn.  I am always asked questions and I try to give the most honest answer I know how to give and if I don't have the answer I tell the person I will find out the answer for them.  I think this is what the Chaplaincy Position is all about.  Just being their for others and not judging or trying to change them.  May God our Father Guide me and teach me as I study this course.  I would love to be a Chaplain to Children and Young People.

Thank You

Sister Sharon L. Madsen

Master of Chaplaincy Training Essay

 

                  Master of Chaplaincy Training study course

By: Rev. Dr. Charles P Mulvaney DD. PhD.'s

How the course on Master of Chaplaincy with twenty lessons enhanced my knowledge and ministry. What did I learn from this course of twenty lessons? What helped me? What could improve this course? What I hope to accomplish as a result of taking this course?

This course taught me that there are various approaches to use when dealing with people of all cultures and religious beliefs. As I approach an individual I need to observe their entire behavior, body language, tone of voice, posture, energy level and their mood. This course has motivated me and given me more tools to work with in these modern days we are living.

This course opened my eyes more and helped me to see the much need for Chaplains in this world in which we live in today. It has given me a deeper desire and my passion is stronger to fulfill my calling by God. We as Chaplains need to assist the Police Department, Fire Department, and Sheriff's Department and Prison Systems. Also, assist in Hospitals, Hospice, Nursing Homes and Corporations. Chaplains are also needed in Grammar Schools, Middle Schools, High Schools, College, University's and Trade Schools. All Chaplains need to be able to communicate with Christians and Non-Believer's, as well as individuals with various religious beliefs like Catholics, Lutherans, Presbyterians, Buddhism, Hinduism and Moslems, etc. The course should me how to communicate properly all the do's and don'ts in being (Politically Correct) in the world we live in today.

When communicating with a patient and or individual do not be overly optimistic to a fault… When a patient and or individual bring up a concern or problem one must listen closely and avoid insisting that all is well. We need to encourage the patient and or individual to have a positive outlook; but this is not always the answer or the case. One must be open minded and approach them with an open heart and kindness. Keep yourself focused on the individual; be aware of your posture and body language. Always orient yourself directly towards the individual and avoid closed posture. Do not interrupt or pass judgment in advance. Probe for more information, but do not force them to speak of something they would prefer not to. Do not preach to the individual on how they should feel or what they should do, etc. Be an active listener; repeat back what you understood them to say, with a brief preface. Don't ask open ended questions; don't ask (yes or no) questions; ask questions that will give more detail of their feelings.

The information I received from these lessons will help me with my Chaplaincy skills. I must believe the information that the individual and or patient shares with me regarding their pain and or coping mechanisms. Do not discount their perception or experience, even mildly. Do not say "I know how you feel." The information will help me in my visits with patients in the hospital or nursing home and in their home settings. I must introduce myself and ask permission if I may enter. Allow them to feel the freedom to express their religious beliefs. At the end of our visit ask if the individual has a religious preference and if they would like to pray.

Often people will ask for advice not because they really want it but because it provides them with an opening to talk about their own problems. Instead of answering their questions in detail turn the conversation back to them as quickly as possible. Give them helpful phrases and establish your willingness to listen. You must be able to discern / interpret the meaning behind the information or words they are speaking, hearing and acknowledging their feelings. Assisting the person think about what he or she already knows and feels. One must assist the individual person in making a proper decision with proper dialogue; by using scripture or therapy… depending on their beliefs.

I must be careful with my non-verbal communications; like facial expressions, tone of voice, posture, and clothing. Also gestures made with hands, arms, legs, face and body, etc. Do not avoid eye contact. All of the above will help me counsel all the patients and or individuals I should come in contact with.

As I prepare myself to go out into the world and do Gods work I must be prayed up. I pray and ask Gods Holy Armor to clothe me, I ask for the Fire of the Holy Spirit to surround me and cover me with His Precious Blood and his Holy Angels to go before me and to cover and protect me from all evil. I ask him to use me to heal the broken hearted and suffering, and to bring peace into their lives. I clear my mind and relax… I have a positive mental attitude; meditate with God's word, knowing that he goes before me. I must also be prepared with a map with directions to the address and phone numbers. I must carry a note book and pen to take notes. I will approach each case and or individual as led by the Holy Spirit; to guide and assist me with the individual in their spiritual and personal needs and problems. I trust and know that the Holy Spirit will direct, convict and enable me and the individual in their process of healing. I will seek to apply biblical principles in leading an individual to find freedom from each specific problem they struggle with. We do not judge an individual for where they are or have been. But we seek to follow the direction to the Lord to resolve and lead the individual to freedom and peace.  

The course I took back in 2009 on the subject matter called Soul Clinic, helped me to become well versed and knowledgeable on assisting individuals of various religious backgrounds. I feel confidant and have the desire and passion to help those in need as a Counselor and Chaplain. I received a Religious Counseling Therapy License from the Universal Life Church. In December of 2011 I took a course on Crisis and Trauma Counseling and a course in helping those going through the process of Grieving Crisis. I also have the training as a first responder with the City and State Crisis Intervention Management of the County of Dallas, TX.

Also, I have read the book on {Death and Dying} What the Dying Have to Say, By: Elizabeth Kubler-Ross M.D. It is about the five stages of how people deal with death and dying. This book taught me how to assist the patient in the transition to death. I can help them to deal and to accept the death and life thereafter.

I also took classes from School of Oncology Counseling and received the following Certificates of Certification in Distress Management in Cancer, Cancer a Family Affair, Loss, Grief and Bereavement, Communication and Interpersonal Skills in Cancer Care. These Oncology Counseling classes assisted me to be a more knowledgeable and fluent in the understanding for the terminal and critically ill patients. 

 In these current times that we live in with all the budget cuts from government to state and within the cities; I see the positions of Chaplains being cut out of the budgets. At the same time there is a crucial need for spiritual guidance with all the violence erupting throughout the country.

Currently in American society, there is an increasing awareness of the value of spiritual interventions in the lives of people involved in crisis at the national and local levels. However, there is also the realization that Ministers and Pastors cannot rely solely on their seminary training and CPE to prepare them for the demands of critical stress management. In fact, it is common for Chaplains without appropriate training to become frustrated by the lack of improvement in the people they are trying to help or to become so enmeshed in the situation that they are worse off after the crisis intervention that at the beginning.  I have the training now to work as a crisis and trauma Counseling Chaplain with my certificates in Training and Spiritual Care. Training recognized by Police, Fire and EMS Departments and with FEMA, grief following a trauma. I am also trained for School Crisis and Trauma, Death Assistance.

As an Ordained Chaplain my dreams and desires of my heart are to be the best Ambassador and Representation of God on this earth for fellow man kind. I desire to work with individuals of all walks of life, (all faiths). My future desires are to enroll in a class for Homeland and Terrorism Crisis and Leadership Training. I desire and want to make a difference in this Country Nationwide (USA) and if possible worldwide! Our country is in such turmoil, a state of violence, in which we need to step out and reach out to those who are willing to listen and be helped. I desire to work with the local schools and communities, in hopes to decrease the violence in our schools and cities. My goal is to reach as many individuals as possible so that each one will have a proper and better understanding of God's love and his Word. So that this individual's heart will be right with God; and furthermore be at peace with themselves and others.

My recommendations on how to improve this course would be to add a crisis trauma training lesson. It should include on how to work with families and individuals on dealing with acts of violence in the work place, schools and public locations.

 

I truly appreciate and enjoyed taking the course on Master of Chaplaincy Training. The quality of the study course gave me a broader spectrum of the duties of a Chaplain in today's society.

 

 

By: Rev. Dr. Charles P Mulvaney DD. PhD's

Master of Chaplaincy Studies Lesson 7

Lesson 7 credit,

I have a place to use for chaplaincy. In our church we have sanctuary and a gym both are set up for church or meetings i just need to pick a time and day. now on with lesson 7 a wedding ceremony this is for semi-formal weddings before god we have come together today for marriage is one of the most sacred of his wishes, and now through me he joins you together in one of the holiest bonds. let us bow our heads in prayer. o lord hear our prayer for his name and her name who today are united in marriage before you give them your blessing and always strengthen their love for each other amen. 

May the bride and groom face each other hand in hand i ask you his name do you take her name for your lawfully wedded wife to love and cherish from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health,  then bride repeats same at this point the couple will exchange rings. to each one as you place the ring on their finger with this ring I thee wed, repeate after me, with this ring I thee wed. may you always share with each other the gifts of love and be one in heart and always  beautiful of mind. and may you always create a home together that puts in your hearts, love, generosity, and kindness. They turn around and face the guest what therefore god has joined together let not man put asunder. and by the power vested in me by all mighty god and our lord and savior jesus christ, i now pronounce you as husband wife. You may now kiss the bride.    

Good morning all bless you who comes in the name of the lord. let us pray,dear lord we come come to your throne of grace, that you touch our lives and our hearts so that your words will penetrate into today's message. this morning please anoint with the power of your word so that we can share for your glory and honor amen.    candle lighting,  we have candle lighting on two occasions, on Christmas eve and during the week of Christmas. 3 purple 1 white 1 pink the white to be lit last.    Speaking of lite the ushers will pass out these keychain lights so you may give them to somebody and tell them you are the lite of the world.     

Now a service,what are you doing? What are you about?  Good morning, I ask you one question-do you love god-know him as your friend-do you talk to him praise him, thank him everyday of your life,in the book of Ephesians are you a faithful chiles of god sealed with the holy spirit of promise. guaranteeing your inheritance, I want you to look on both side of you and tell them i love you. do you mean it. the bible says to greet one another with a holy kiss, well not do that. earlier i ask what are you doing, what are you about. 

Let me tell you a story of a young boy 12 years of age the young was boy boy was traveling to jerusalem for the passover spending the day ,his parents headed back to nazareth not knowing the bow was left behind. his parents could not find him, they ask all around but he was not to be found, so his parents headed back to jerusalem and found him on the steps,teaching the elders, when his parents ask him why have you worried us so he answered , didn't you know I would be about my fathers business. again i ask you, what are you doing about your fathers business. are you enduring the trials or pain and persecutions of this world. to accomplish his will in your life. Jesus was at the time dividing the word of truth teaching the scriptures, he did what he saw his father doing all good things turning lives around he gave his life so others could live. it was always about others and not himself people it doesn't matter where you have been, what you have done or what you have been through, remember i can do all things through christ who strenghs me. what is Jesus will for your life?  To present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to god. be not conformed to this world, be  transformed by the renewing of your mind, we are to hold back nothing giving ourselves completely, we live our life daily for him, ask daily what we can do for him, and pray without ceaseing. 5 years ago i was in a near death car wreck broke my hip my left shoulder gave me a drop foot messed up a stem in my head, amd my sciotic nerve, thanks be to god they told me it would take me uo to 8 years to fully recover I am in my 5th year and taking seminary going on to be a chaplain. greater is he that is in the world. i am walking talking and doing just fine. for several days while i in a hospital I was full of hate untill i read 90 minutes in heaven-it changed my life i went back to all the doctors and staff to tell them i was sorry for the way i treated them. after our closing song if you wish to come to the alter please feel free to do so.     Let us pray, thank you father for your presence at this service, thank you for your word guide us and direct us in all we do thank you lord for your many blessings and keeping us safe so we can once again come and worship you. in Christ name we pray - amen.       

now a benediction, now the god of hope fill you with all joy peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope through the power of the holy spirit. amen offeratory may the ushers please come foward,  let us pray, remembering the lords words blessed to give than to receive,dear lord the ushers may not have danced up the aisles like david danced up the steps of the temple long ago but we pray that real joy may accompany our giving may we give back a portion of you have giving us, amen             another prayer     

dear lord the time has come, o-lord for us to leave this place, guide us and protect us and lead  in thy way wherver life may take us as we go our separate ways may the peace of god the father and the love of jesus christ his son guide us in the days ahead and strengthen us each one,may the blessing of the holy spirit fill us from within, may god bless you and return us once to the fellowship of our lord.  a-men     end of lesson 7 

---

Final essay Master of Chaplaincy by Rev. Hackler

Final Essay Master of Chaplaincy:

The questions I was asked: What did I learn? A chaplain's most important service is to listen, to provide spiritual guidance, comfort, and counseling. And this course has reinforced my belief that no one should be judged or turned away because of their beliefs, sex, race, sexual orientation, and anything else that makes them stand out as an individual. I knew from a very early age I was set apart, I have spent my life spiritually searching, this course has given me direction, not a new path, but a piece of the road map that I was missing. These lessons reinforced the need to live the life I represent, through my life, the life I live daily, through my faithfulness, trustworthiness, reliability, as a chaplain my job is not 9 to 5, it is a life, 24/7. A chaplain is Faithful in their belief, but accepting of all. I learned a chaplain needs to have good communication skills. A chaplain needs to be able to separate themselves from a situation. My connection with my higher power must be strong, I must set aside time for that connection. My unwillingness to not accept failure isn't part of my position as a chaplain, there will be times I cannot help.

As chaplain I would have to be well acquainted in the nature of the business or agency in which I would be working. Understanding the business or agency helps a chaplain in counseling individual employees that are facing career crises and job pressures. Chaplains are often required to meet one-on-one with employees and managers, as well as in small groups or in conferences, seminars and meetings. The main areas that need a Chaplain in my areas are related to health care and we went over that last week. If I worked for a company I would follow what my research has shown me. Privacy, trustworthiness, reliably, and respect are my greatest assets, and I would use them as much at work as I do in my personal life. To gain trust I would know the rules of the organization I work for, be honest, trustworthy (no gossiping), consistent, reliable, available. I would work on healthy relationships with the other employees and my superiors. Knowing who to refer people to if I'm not the one they need would also build an area of trust. As one can see there are many steps to building trust, another

BIG TRUST BUILDER is to live the life you are projecting during work hours, goodness, honesty, and trustworthiness doesn't have a time clock. Oregon law requires clergy to report abuse. I can have a strong  my ministry by: Not compromising myself in any situation, my own or others. Always walking in my faith while accepting others' rights to their beliefs. Praying before making any decisions and have those seeking my help pray. Surrounding myself with smart, moral people. Loving my family and not putting them aside while I reach out to help others. Taking care of myself, mentally and physically. Learning from stumbles, and using them to grow closer to my higher power. Always living what I talk. Pray for those that upset me. Let go of anger quickly as I learn to stop it before it enters me. Live an open and honest life. Always doing what I know is right.

SELF AWARENESS: Know my limits: When ask to help in areas I haven't got experience in I will refer them to someone who can. Be aware of manipulation.  Contra-transference: I avoid it by setting appointments, not meeting away from scheduled places, keeping myself physically and mentally healthy. Respect sex: To avoid the trap I keep all my inner actions with the person on a professional level. I keep myself emotionally and physically healthy, (a good diet and plenty of sleep keeps the brain working as we want it to). And I keep all my personal relationships strong, mate and friends. All gifts I receive are handed over to my ministry to decide their destiny, that includes cookies, etc. Money: One set fee, donations may be made to our ministry through a check made out to it, not me. Pride: I have no problem saying I don't know something, but I will help that person find the answer, either through listening to them, research, or a referral to a person with knowledge of what they seek. I know I'm replaceable, I take my vacations and leave my work to rest or to someone else. I always listen when my friends counsel me.  In our ministry we celebrate every holiday one of our members brings to us. Everyone is welcome to join in or leave the room. We have a loving group that has, so far, joined into every celebration. We encourage the younger ones to bring in wacky, fun holidays. We've celebrated "take your pants on a walk day (while we are wearing them)", "Teddy Bear Picnic Day", and many more. And by doing these activity I've found the young ones more interested in our celebrations, the meanings behind them and the desire to participate.  Making a sacred place: Any corner or empty space that you deem "sacred"  is perfect. Place a room divider, beads, or a curtain to section off your place. Add a comfortable chair or a pillow on the floor. Create an altar with objects that will bring the energy of spirituality. An altar can be as simple as  a small table with special to you fabric or paper on it. You can have candles, oil, crystal, etc on it. Place a symbol from your own religious belief on it, a cross, a rose, etc.  Add plants and colors, depends how much room you have. Photographs of gardens and or flowers may be uplifting. Add soft music, a book, a pen and paper. Weddings: never assume anything, get it in writing. A chaplain needs a soul friend: I have a few  very close friends, now I have a special name for these very close friends:

SOUL FRIENDS. benefit. How we became so close is an item that took thought because we have shared this for many years, but thinking it over I can say we became close in our spiritual quest, our mutual respect, and have grown closer as we seek further enlightenment. My Mentor: A mentor In the lessons we were told we need a mentor. My mentor is a very wise and knowledgeable, retired clergy person. She listens, advises, laughs and tells me not to take myself so seriously, that God is in control. And we're taught we need a self-care plan: My spiritual self-care plan is: First know when to say no. Overloading myself is a sure way to burn out. Give myself plenty of sleep, proper diet, time to enrich my mind, time to grow spiritually, time to pray, time to meditate, time to spend grounded. Spend time with family and friends, and never skip vacations. Be prepared: I have a bag packed with everything I might need, other items in my car, like food and water. Along with the physical, material things that I take with me, I take a lot of smiles, positive attitude, confidence in myself, good posture, a strong connection to my higher power, prayers, and most importantly good listening skills.

What helped me? the clear way the lessons were written and Amy's fast response to all my questions. What could improve this course? I believe it's right on, see no improvements needed.

What you hope you will accomplish as a result of taking this course. Of course there is always the search for knowledge and enlightenment, but I am working on becoming a chaplain and this is the first course I took to show me what it completely entailed and I believe it accomplished exactly what I expected from it and more. from

Rev. Mary Jane Hackler