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 

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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

 

Chaplaincy Studies ~ Final Essay by Rev. Murman

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

Chaplaincy Studies Lesson 19

Lesson 19 ~ Chaplaincy Studies ~ The Chaplains Toolbox ~ Essay

By:  Rev. Trent Murman, OSM, OSF

 

Write a paragraph describing your "tool belt" and your "tool box."  In my personal toolbox/tool belt I carry a few items that distinguish me as clergy.  Like most clergy I have on myself at all times my business cards.  This allows me to not only leave proof that I was there to visit with the person, but to introduce myself to the family if need be.  There are many times you may go to visit with the sick and they may be away for hospital tests and instead of waiting around for them to return, I leave my card in a place convenient for them or a family member to see and make note on the card when I plan to be in that area again or of course they may contact me if they wish to see me at another time other than what is designated.  If I am called to see a client in the emergency room I always take my, what I call, situation case with me.  Here I have a Ministers Guide Book for particular ceremonies, Communion wafers and drink, Holy Water and Anointing Oil.  This allows me to be prepared for which ever situation confronts me at the time of my visit.  If a client is not of my particular faith I will ask the E.R. staff if their own particular clergy is on their way and if there is time to wait for them.  If there is time to wait, I will stand by to comfort the client and family members and when their clergy arrives I introduce myself to him/her and then promptly excuse myself.  I also have at my disposal my personal cell phone which allows me to schedule appointments, web browse, make phone calls, etc.  I also carry with me a small pad of paper and of course a pen to jot down particulars.  However, I never jot down particulars regarding what the client and I have discussed, please remember this is to remain private and no one should accidentally come across this information….it is usually on a need to know basis and the forgiveness of sins is personal.  If the patient is in a critical situation, I usually ask one family member to stay with me, this may also allow the patient to be more at ease or a nursing staff member to remain and they are advised that whatever they hear is strictly confidential and must not nor cannot be repeated under any circumstances.  If the patient is too critical it really wouldn't matter because they probably wouldn't be able to talk and I would just simply help prepare them for the next part of their journey.  I find it reassuring to the patient's family if they can witness what I am doing, this sometimes puts their minds at ease that their family member was properly prepared.  I always carry with me my visitation stole (purple/white).  This tends to make things a tad bit more professional.  I usually start out by asking the patient if they have accepted Jesus as their savior…if they reply yes then I go on with the anointing, usually on the hand.  If they request baptism I do this quickly on the forehead.  After all is taken care of I conclude with the Hail Mary [the patient and the family can say it with me aloud].  And finish up with….In the name of the Father, the son and the Holy Spirit….Go In Peace.  I find this to be sufficient to be in my toolbox.  If the family requests me to stay around for grief counseling with other family members I certainly do.  When I feel my time with this situation has come to an acceptable end I professionally excuse myself.  Sometimes I will sit in my car before leaving the parking lot and go over the visitation to make sure in my mind I have done my best.  Remember, some ER and/or ICU visitations can be very stressful and you may not have much time.  Just do the best you can.  And, by all means don't forget the first golden rule of chaplains…be prepared to LISTEN.

Go In Peace

Lesson 18 ~ Chaplaincy Studies

Lesson 18 – Personal Spiritual Care ~ Beware of Burn-Out!

By:  Rev. Trent Murman, OSM, OSF

 

Look at your ministry. What are the stressor points? What is your week like? At this time I have very limited stressors.  My main goal is to complete seminary classes and achieve a Chaplaincy appointment with my intended goal to work with the Armed Forces Veterans.  Due to my background I feel this is how I could best serve my fellow man.  I have allotted much of my work week toward the seminary classes due to the fact this is a second vocation/journey in my life.  Getting away on a vacation at least twice a year and some time off, I try to do this at least once a month for a 3 day consecutive period, this has been a great reliever of stress.  Be sure to set up a covering clergyman/woman in advance to help you with these times of "Personal Spiritual Care".  Develop your spiritual care plan. Write a brief description of it.   My spiritual care plan follows closely a book written by Perry H. Biddle, Jr. "A Hospital Visitation Manual".  This manual covers all aspects of ministering to many diseases which the ministers may be confronted with both in and out of the hospital settings.  When I go into an acute care setting I do try to limit the visitation directly to the patient to five to ten minutes.  I do what I have to do including speaking with the patient [if possible].  Remembering you can always visit with the family in the acute care setting waiting room, this will help not disrupting the vital nursing care functions that need to be performed.  The "Hospital Chapel" is always available for your own use or the family may be reminded of the chapel if there is a need for solitude or private worshiping.  The chapel usually has pre-announced times of denominational services where Rabi's, Priests, Muslims and other Christian clergy may conduct their own services.  Always check in at the nurse's station before proceeding to a patient's room, it is only proper to do this no matter what part of the hospital you are visiting.   I do home visitations only if the patient is confined to his/her home and when directly asked by the patient or his/her family member to stop by.  It is only common courtesy to confirm your visitation the day before in case situations have changed.  Remember if you are to administer "Anointing" or "Absolution" this should be a private rite of passage between you, the patient and their God.  Hospital staff and even other family members should be excused from the patient's room to ensure their privacy.  The patient and his/her family places an enormous amount of faith/trust in the clergy.  This must be honored and kept in strict privacy so there is no break in that trust can never be questioned.  Spiritual care should be administered to all persons that request it, for the chaplain administers to all persons of all faiths.  And going back to what we discussed in lesson #1….Listen to your people….Chaplains are and need to be great listeners. 

GO IN PEACE