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My Next Steps in Chaplain Ministry
By Linda Ingram
Upon finishing reading “the Work of the Chaplain” I realize that I may need to change several preconceived ideas as to how I was going to use this knowledge in my personal life. The first of those is that I did not need the certification offered with the course. After talking with another Chaplin and considering where I was going after the course, I now believe that the certification is necessary for me and others. If I am going to reach out into the community to help those in need there needs to be some proof that I am qualified to do the job I am setting out to do. The certification from Bikers Bible Institute is that proof. So upon completion of this course, I will be seeking certification.
It has also come to my attention that I need the support system of other chaplains while doing the work the Lord has set before me. Joining one or more organizations will fill that need to a certain extent, but I feed that local contact would suite my need better. I read on the BBI Face book page that there are 5 Chaplains (some students) in Texas. I believe that a relationship with these and future chaplains would be a valuable support system. I know one other chaplain in the biker community and will get with him to see if he knows of others that could provide a professional support system.
As I read the textbook and listened to the videos I began to realize that I do not have to move to a different city to have a community chaplaincy. There are multiple opportunities right here where I live, outside of a small Texas town, to provide to those in need of ministry.
Women’s jail ministry – I know of a lady that has a weekly Bible Study for women in the local jail. An outreach to her, offering to help with the class would give the opportunity to build relationships with these women that may lead to sharing the Good News in a non-threatening manner.
Women’s exercise group – A local church sponsors an exercise program for women in the community. Some of these women go to other churches and some are non-believers, but they are women with everyday problems that could benefit from a chaplain’s ministry. Going to the exercise classes and building relationships with these women may provide a bridge if the opportunity would arise to be of service. With the permission of the hosting provider, the instructors could be made aware of a chaplain’s presence and willingness to help if they become aware of a woman in distress.
Children’s exercise camp – An event held by a local church for the community several times a year. Parents and children are from all types of households and circumstances. Some need prayer as they drop off their children or when picking them up. A chaplain could be useful in these areas, as the church would not be seen as apostatizing. The chaplain could then follow up with non-faith families.
Senior Citizen Center – A once a week Bible Study, or an on-call ministry with the Senior Citizen Center could also be a possibility. People with crisis needs often stop at the center for information and assistance. Building a relationship with the center may lead to relationships with these individuals.
Nursing Home – A weekly visit to the nursing home near my home could turn into a Bible study or just a visit with residents. Visiting with residents individually or in small groups would be a great way to build friendships. Playing games, reading, just being present are all ways to get to know people that have needs. Building these relationships can lead to the opportunity to share the Good News in a non-threatening was to a population that is nearing the end of their lives.
Local Biker community – As a member of CMA (Christian Motorcyclists Association) there are numerous activities; rallies, bike nights, bike rides and a chance meeting in which contact and the chance to build relationships can occur with fellow bikers. Weekly interaction provides the opportunity to build relationships where the Good-News can be shared.
With all of this said, I am looking forward to exploring the opportunities and setting into play those avenues where God leads.
I want to take this opportunity to thank Biker Bible Institute for their efforts in putting this Chaplains Course out there. I feel that God has been leading me in that way for a while, but there was not a resource that fit my need, until I saw your add. Read the handbook and listening to the video has shown me that this is a viable ministry and one I can attain and be fruitful in.
Thank you
Linda Ingram