The Role of Chaplain

The title of Chaplain, goes back to the medieval Religious Orders in reference to their "Cappa", a clock that was worn at the time. It means the same as Almoner, the "giver of Alms" or to help anyone who was in need,regardless of their religion in a time when Jews and Muslims were more in number, especially in Europe than we know today. From this, developed first, as an Aide to the Bishops and later to the role of Chaplain we have today.
For many years, clergy would take on the role of a chaplain for numerous reasons, to seek ecclesiastical promotion in form of becoming a Bishop's Chaplain, to seek the safety of not fulfilling the duties of a curate and more recently, taking on the role within the Healthcare industry so to achieve some form of stability with family & not moving parishes every few years.
But today the Chaplain in seen in nearly every sphere of life:Bishop's Chaplain, Military, Healthcare, Police & Fire Service, Schools, Colleges & Universities and now recently advertising in England "Nightclub Chaplain".
Until the 1990's there was no training for Chaplains outside of "on the job", but now many universities and Seminaries offer everything right up to the level of a Doctorate program. Even my own Seminary in Wales is now a leading light in this field. But still clergy think of it as a soft option in ministry and fail to seek the real calling in this area. Many can learn to work in chaplaincy, but few are called. It tests both your vocation and faith in our Lord & Saviour, as well your ability not to compromise your own faith tradition, while at the same time working with others from different traditions. Those who seek out the Chaplain or Padre' want to you to be sincere and committed to you faith & church, yet at the same time, willing to be flexible enough to respect others. A Baptist Chaplain must be willing to Baptise Infants and a Traditional Anglican must be willing to carry out a Baptist style Communion service. We are called "to be where people are at", to "walk with them in their walk with God", a call that is demanding and yet fulfilling, when asked to pray for the Dying, hold the hand of the sick and also be in fellowship with all. Social interaction is part of the territory, yet, you need to learn the difference between "Friend" and "Friendly". If Chaplains are truly to be servants of God, there is a thin line we walk, yet not allowing those who we minister to,to cross it, as well as ourselves!