The Paradox of Chaplaincy
The paradox of chaplaincy is found in its many ministry activities within a wide pluralistic context. In addition to providing worship and other ministry opportunities out of their own Protestant/Pentecostal faith, they must also provide religious opportunities for many other faith persuasions. That not only includes hundreds of different expressions of the Christian faith, but also groups such as Orthodox, Buddhist, Hindu, Islam, etc.
In this dual role, centered in their own faith expressions and providing an accommodation for other faith groups, do they lose themselves in the process? I have observed our chaplains in this sea of pluralism for many years; and I can say, without doubt, that not only do they not lose their Pentecostal identity, but their identity is strengthened in this process.
Why would that be?
First, through their training and faith development, they know that if they are to go “beyond the gates” into the vast post-modern world, they must be mature, deeply committed to their Christian practices and theology, and have a family that is equally mature. Therefore, we can say without doubt that we have in our chaplaincy ministries some of the most dedicated and mature servants of the Lord that you will find anywhere.
Secondly, they must feel called to this ministry “beyond the gates.” While they provide for other religious groups, they are driven by a passion to see all creation honor Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior; that is, they have not forgotten that ultimately, “every knee will bow and every tongue confess Him as the one and only Lord.”
Thirdly, they are driven by an unconditional love for the wounded; so they can truly care for individuals and families without being burdened with “what brand do they come to me with?” Without unconditional love for a wounded world, chaplains, like all ministers, could fall into one of two traps: 1) refusing to minister to those not identified as being part of their “unique faith persuasion;” or 2) giving unconditional care out of a distorted and dysfunctional view of their own Pentecostal foundation. While we give unconditional care, we know that unconditional love flows out of a deep, passionate belief that God created on this earth a unique body of Pentecostals, who equally believe in holiness.
It is out of the strength of our uniqueness, not out of our plurality, that we are able to give such unconditional care. God has blessed us with chaplains who are mature and dedicated deeply enough to be sent to a divided, pluralistic and wounded world.
Dr. Robert Crick
Director, Chaplains Commission
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© 2007 Church of God World Missions
