How do you pursue a career in chaplaincy?
Hello all, I’m wondering if someone can help me identify the best way to pursue a career in (most likely hospice) Chaplaincy.
Considering the different pathways I’m a bit unsure about how to proceed. As I understand it, the available forms of training - some of which are required, some of which are not - are:
CPE training
An mDiv or MTS degree (I understand it is not necessary but can be helpful both vocationally and economically)
Training/certification of ministry through your personal congregation
Certification through places like APC
From my research at this point, I identify most with humanist chaplaincy. I have religious and spiritual practice in my personal life, but don’t see the need to engage doctrine for the service of people in crisis/pain/confusion, a major motivation for this decision. At the same time, I recognize the support religion brings its followers and would happily educate myself in various religions in as much as was necessary to meet people at that place. Currently, I am a professional musician and have been told that there are also ways to bring music into chaplaincy care if I so chose. So I am also wondering if I would need to pursue this in a specific way if i were to incorporate those sorts of methodologies.
I am based in NYC. Any clarity would be greatly appreciated! If in reading this you think of certain programs or people or resources to reach out to I’d be most grateful.
Galen