Linda Ingram Philosophy

Personal Philosophy of Ministry as a Chaplain

By Linda Ingram

As I begin this study on chaplaincy, I have asked myself and God, “Is this where I am supposed to go?”  In the first chapter and the research topics for that chapter, I have learned that chaplains evolved outside of the church.  And that they encamp a wide range for backgrounds, as some are my own. I believe this is God’s way of affirming that this is the path I am to take.  Three years ago when He had me join CMA   (along with other things that took place in that time frame)  I believe he was laying a foundation for my place in this ministry.  

Over the years of belonging to several different religious originations (churches), I have come to know the Word of God as my guide as to what God’s plan is for us as his chosen people.  After listening to the introduction video I can answer the two important questions;

1. Are you connected?  Yes, I have an active prayer life and ask and listen for the Holy Spirit’s leading.  As evident as to where I am now.
2. Do you care about people?  Yes, I do. My adult life has been spent working with people; teacher, social worker, case manager, and counselor.

During these years I was prohibited from sharing my faith in Jesus Chris, but being in the position of Chaplin would allow me to do that (at the appropriate time and with the leading of the Holy Spirit). And as I believe this is the will of God for me that Phil. 4:13 and John 15:5 will stay for me.

My Personal Mission Statement:

“To build caring relationships by tending to matters of the heart and spirit, and providing resources that enable men and women to grow into a deeper spiritual maturity. And that those bridges will lead to the hope of gaining permission to share the Life-Changing Good News of Jesus Christ in a non-threatening manner.”

Personal Philosophy of Chaplain Ministry

To build those caring relationships certain principles need to be in place while interacting with people.

Without going to the population that needs the ministry of the Chaplin is would be very difficult to reach people in need.  Therefore I will need to put in place a plan to join or participate in originations or activities that afford me the opportunities to minister to those in need.  During these opportunities, it will be necessary to be vigilant to individuals that need assistance and make a sincere approach to help them.  Along with this principle, it is that all people of no social status may need the services of a Chaplain.  No matter my personal thoughts or judgments it needs to be Holy Spirit that leads and guides me to those that He would want me to minister to.

In building a bridge to a relationship a Chaplain has several factors to consider, such as setting a good example and building trust. I learned a long time ago that I do not know it all, but I can try to find the answer. When I can show a person how to go the Word of God and through prayer to find guidance for life problems, I can set an example for them to follow.   Nor do I have it all together all the time, but God can, as He works through me.   We all have real-life problems that we do not have answers for, but showing that God can provide answers is a life-changing reality. When I do not “practice what I preach” my credibility is shot with those I am trying to reach.  Letting those I am working with see my faithfulness day after day is a true witness to my charter. Letting them see me do what I say I will do. Letting them see my work with others, treating everyone with caring and compassion will go a long way to prove my credibility.

 Exercising wisdom in choosing the appropriate ministry intervention for each need is a key element to successful counseling. Taking into account the person’s readiness to receive it, the ability to use it and or sustain it. If the person is not successful when applying my counsel they most likely not be receptive to further suggestions.  

In demonstrating my worth as a friend it is very important to guard the confidentiality of the person I am working with. If confidentiality is broken the relationship will likely terminate and God cannot use me to carry out His plan for that individual. It may also damage other relationships when others learn that confidentiality was not kept.

A Chaplain must provide the same ministry to all people in the identified ministry group. Playing favorites or neglecting a person within the group does not build credibility among the members.  When this happens the members of the group see you as a person that cannot be trusted.

People of other faiths and beliefs may need help or reassurance during a crisis situation or trying time. A Chaplain’s duty is to help them within their beliefs as much as they can, using this time to show compassion and respect. Later on, a door may open where I can share the Good News in a non-threatening manner.  

Sometimes the most comfort that can be given whether it is in a hospital waiting room or in a hospital bed is keeping watch. In these situations it may not be necessary to engage in a lot of conversation as the person is trying to process the immediate things that are taking place. A comforting presence is worthy of a Chaplain’s time and effort. Later on, more action may be needed and as a Chaplain, I have already demonstrated that I care about the individual’s circumstances and may be called on to do more.

I do realize that other people may have no faith or have a different faith than I do. But as a follower of Jesus Christ, I believe that there is only one way to Heaven and that is thru believe that Jesus is the Son of God and that He gave His life for my sin that I might have everlasting life.  I do not believe being a Chaplain to others would not make me drop or change that belief.  With my experience in working with people in all kinds of setting I know that the first needs of the individual will have to be taken care of before they will be open to hearing the good news. One of the most effective ways to do that is to minister to their needs and by example, thus creating a non-threatening environment to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Linda Ingram