An Invitation to Ministry - Chaplaincy & Pastoral Care

Anne Marie O'Reordan

For the past three years I have taught the pastoral placement module on the Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care course at the Cambridge Theological Federation (CTF), and each year I have been reminded of the value and indeed necessity of ongoing formation. This course has continued to form me as a chaplain and, I hope, contributed to the formation of those I have encountered.

The formation on offer involves the equipping of students to reflect on and critically evaluate their practice as well as deepen their knowledge of the evolving nature of chaplaincy and pastoral care. Chaplaincy involves established ecclesial customs and traditions yet also requires an understanding of how it relates to the complexities of the society in which it is practised.

Chaplains often find themselves at the sharp end of society. This means they are uniquely placed to understand the spiritual needs of people today. Whether this is in schools, prisons, hospitals or universities, in all contexts chaplains will encounter people of faith, of none and many in between. To equip students to meet the spiritual needs of those they are likely to encounter, the course offers two core modules.

Models of Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care explores "the history of pastoral theology and the practices of pastoral care in a variety of Christian traditions" in critical dialogue with other academic disciplines. The Pastoral Placement module explores the theory and practice of theological reflection to enable students to become reflective practitioners. If the student wishes to complete the course as a Diploma or Masters, they will have the opportunity to study two optional modules in addition to the core offering.

To be a chaplain or pastoral care worker is a privilege, which will take you on a journey of real discovery. One chaplain I spoke to recently encapsulated her journey of maturation succinctly. At the beginning she felt the need to be busy all the time and provide all the answers, "Now I tend to 'loiter with intent' a bit more". Like this chaplain we invite you to explore the possibility of embarking on this ministry or deepening your existing ministerial practice. Either way we hope that this course will move you in the direction you feel called to.

For more details about the course, visit: MA in Pastoral Care and Chaplaincy

You are also welcome to attend our online Open Day with Taster Class on Wednesday, 19 March at 3pm. Register here: Open Day Registration