EMERGENCY SERVICES CHAPLAINCY
The Need ... Disasters are a common occurrence in today’s world. Victims, their families, emergency personnel, and even bystanders experience some measure of trauma. Exposure to suffering and death, especially on a massive scale, will often cause basic questioning of one’s faith and God’s role in human history.
The Target ... The chaplain ministers to all victims of the
disaster and the emergency response teams involved in disaster relief.
The Process ... The steps for establishing an emergency service ministry are:
1. Pray for God’s leadership.
2. Share your desire to serve with your Pastor and your church’s Disaster Relief Coordinator.
3. Contact you Association and/or State Convention office, indicating your interest in serving as a chaplain.
4. The State Convention provides information and applications for chaplaincy service.
5. Attend state-approved training and apply for certification as an emergency services chaplain.
6. Commit yourself to respond when the need arises.
The Ministry… The chaplain as a member of the disaster response team,
provides emotional support and spiritual guidance
for persons affected by disasters.
MINISTRY OF PRESENCE
Chaplains represent God’s presence in the midst of the disaster and provide comfort and strength. They move within the disaster area among the victims and emergency response personnel to instill hope and confidence.
PRAYER MINISTRY
Prayer focuses our attention on God and His power in the midst of our present situation. Chaplains constantly remain sensitive to the cries for help and respond immediately by praying with those in need.
COUNSELING/REFERRAL
Chaplains provide a listening ear, a caring heart and a shoulder on which to cry. They express understanding and acceptance of peoples’ feelings. They refer individuals to available helping agencies to meet specific needs.
WORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Chaplains lead formal and informal worship services, Bible studies, prayer meetings, Memorial services and funerals. They take advantage of every opportunity to involve victims and disaster response personnel in worship.
LITERATURE DISTRIBUTION
Chaplains distribute “Spiritual Care Packages” to disaster victims. These may include Bibles, Scripture portions, Bible study materials, devotional materials, tracts, helping agency referral materials/brochures and children’s materials. If possible, secure materials in the languages spoken in the disaster area.
SOCIAL SERVICES
Chaplains cooperate with the disaster response tea in providing food, clothing, shelter, financial assistance, safety brochures and medical care..
The Reason… Disasters prompt deep-seated questions related
to our faith and well-being. Chaplains help victims face their questions with hope and begin the healing process.