About the School

​Chaplains are ordained Christian ministers who are trained professionals specializing in caring for individuals residing in care centers. Chaplains minister to the spiritual and emotional needs of the residents, their families and the staff of the care centers. They help the residents and families more fully understand life’s events as they relate to their spiritual and emotional well-being.

Chaplains are trained pastoral caregivers meeting the highest standards within the field of clinical pastoral care. The chaplain, through professional training and certification, helps meet the most important needs of the care center residents—their spiritual and emotional needs.
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A chaplain is a full member of the healthcare team who provides for the pastoral needs of the care center residents. A chaplain performs worship services, Sunday school classes, Bible studies, memorial services, funerals and one-on-one ministry with the residents, their family members and care center staff. On average, they lead over five individuals to Christ per week or 260 people a year!

“No segment of our society is as desperately needy for spiritual food as those confined to nursing homes and convalescent centers. I think of them as God’s jewels—His Precious Jewels…. In reality, we are fortunate and blessed that He has entrusted them to us.”
— Herb Haakenson, Sonshine Society