CHURCHES
Chaplaincy
Extending Christ’s care beyond the walls of the church. Spiritual care and presence in moments that matter most.
Chaplaincy as a Strategic Extension of the Church
Chaplaincy is a strategic extension of pastoral care in collaboration with local churches & pastors.
​
Through trained and trusted spiritual leaders, chaplaincy allows the church to be present in places where traditional pastoral access may be limited or unavailable. Hospitals, workplaces, schools, correctional facilities, crisis situations, and community institutions often require spiritual care that operates beyond congregational walls.
​
Mission Driven Churches supports chaplaincy as a way for churches to extend their witness, care, and presence into the wider world — without overextending local pastors or congregations. Their role is not to replace pastoral leadership, but to embody Christ’s compassion in moments of vulnerability, transition, and need.
​
Through chaplaincy, trained leaders may provide:
-
Spiritual support during illness, grief, trauma, or crisis
-
Prayer and emotional care for individuals and families
-
Support for first responders, healthcare workers, and educators
-
Ministry within correctional, military, or institutional settings
-
Presence during moments of uncertainty, loss, or discernment
In every setting, chaplaincy reflects humility, discretion, and deep respect for those in its care.
Why Chaplaincy Matters for Churches
Chaplaincy serves both the church and the wider community.
Pastors and churches are increasingly asked to respond to needs that are complex, urgent, and dispersed across many contexts. Chaplaincy helps bridge that gap.
This ministry supports:
-
Churches seeking to extend care beyond Sunday and beyond the building
-
Pastors who need trusted partners in moments of crisis or specialized care
-
Congregations whose members face hospitalization, incarceration, or workplace hardship
-
Communities that may never enter a church — but are open to spiritual care
Chaplaincy allows the church to meet people where they already are and to remain faithful to their calling without carrying the weight alone. Chaplaincy works best when churches and chaplains move forward together.
how to connect
Chaplains with an asterisk* are available as mentors for individuals interested in Chaplaincy. Please contact them directly for more information.
Monthly
Chaplaincy meetings
Our chaplains gather in person on a monthly basis in an informal, relational setting. Members share stories, encourage one another, build meaningful relationships, offer prayer support, and welcome newcomers. A Zoom option is available for those who are unable to attend in person.
WHEN: Meeting 2nd Thursday at Noon
WHERE: MCD Region Office
4578 Hagadorn Road, East Lansing, MI
