Do you have a passionate desire to be involved in a dynamic pastoral care ministry within the healthcare setting? As a professional Chaplain, you can make a difference in the lives of those who are suffering, recovering or dying...and to their loved ones as well as the medical staff. The ministry of a healthcare chaplain in these stressful situations can restore the spirits of those in need and make an eternal difference in their lives. HCMA Chaplains daily respond to the spiritual needs of people from different cultures and ethnic groups, people with various worldviews and beliefs, people who are searching for meaning in life. Serving with HCMA as a professional healthcare Chaplain is about bringing God closer to the patient/resident and the patient/resident closer to God.
If you are a seminary student, pastor, commissioned or ordained minister, missionary or other person with an active ministry background, you could be a part of the HCMA team. HCMA offers you an opportunity to build upon your theological knowledge and ministry experience within the specialized ministry of healthcare chaplaincy.
Are You Qualified?
Are you qualified to be a healthcare Chaplain with HCMA? If you are thinking about HCMA chaplaincy as a possible ministry option, you will need to meet the following requirements:
- A clear statement of conversion to Christ
- A vital walk and growing relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ
- A definite leading and calling to healthcare chaplaincy
- A graduate level theological degree (or equivalent)
- At least two years of pastoral ministry experience
- Ordination or commissioning from a recognized Christian faith group
- Ecclesiastical endorsement
Applicants must be able to raise their own financial support, though many healthcare facilities do provide a full or partial stipend. Once accepted, HCMA will provide an intensive and extensive clinical pastoral training program (4 Units—1,600 hours) that will help prepare you to minister as a competent and compassionate Chaplain in a healthcare setting.