Chaplaincy Ministries Report

Mission and Ministry

The Northeastern Conference Chaplaincy Ministries Department was created to carry the healing ministry of Jesus beyond the pulpit and into the public square. From schools and hospitals to correctional facilities and military bases, we are called to meet people where they are—especially in times of crisis and transition. Our mission is to equip pastors and lay leaders to offer spiritual, emotional, and moral care in these spaces. This is the heart of chaplaincy—offering holistic care that addresses physical pain, emotional wounds, and spiritual need, just as Jesus did.

As illustrated in Luke 10:33-34, the Good Samaritan "had compassion…bandaged his wounds, pouring oil and wine."

Major Accomplishments and Milestones

On October 3, 2022, a defining partnership was formed through Dr. Joshua Deonarine and Dr. Dedrick Blue on behalf of NEC with Dr. Francine Hernandez, a nationally respected Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) supervisor. Together, they launched NEC’s CPE program, offering two cohorts annually with an average of 12+ students per cohort. Pastors and lay leaders alike have testified to its life-changing impact—personally and professionally. Many described it as the most transformative learning experience of their ministry.

On February 29, 2024, under the leadership of Dr. Abraham Jules, the NEC Executive Committee made history by appointing its first Director of Chaplaincy Ministries—the first such appointment in the North American Division.

In September 2024, the department hosted its inaugural Chaplaincy Congress, drawing over 150 participants. Featured presenters included Chaplain Gilda Dhola-Roddy (Associate Director, Adventist Chaplaincy Ministries, NAD), Dr. Asnel Valcin (Director of Spiritual Care and Education, Episcopal Health Services), and Rabbi Dr. Hillel Fox (Director of Chaplaincy Services and Education, North Shore University Hospital), among others. The congress offered vital training and orientation across various fields of chaplaincy—including campus, community, corrections, healthcare, law enforcement, and military—and provided guidance on board certification and endorsement. The NEC administration was present to bring greetings and express full support for the ministry’s mission.

We also partnered with the Atlantic Union Conference’s Adventist Lay Chaplains Association to provide Lay Chaplaincy Certification for members without formal theological training. Level 1 training is scheduled for October 10–12, 2025, at the NEC Office. In addition, several CPE students are now volunteering in Adventist schools, where their presence is making a meaningful impact. A WhatsApp group of over 30 chaplains serves as a platform for ongoing learning, support, and community building.

Statistical Highlights

• 4 CPE cohorts conducted (2022–2025), serving 50+ students
• 150+ participants at the 2024 Chaplaincy Congress
• 5 Adventist schools supported by volunteer chaplains
• 30+ chaplains in active peer support network

Challenges and Forward Focus

Balancing the responsibilities of Chaplaincy Ministries with leadership of Health Ministries and local pastoral duties has been challenging. Continued progress has been made possible through strategic partnerships, intentional planning, and administrative collaboration.

Strategic Goals and Recommendations (2025–2030)

• Establish NEC as a recognized CPE training site
• Launch a chaplaincy website with resources and training tools
• Encourage pastors, elders, and leaders to complete at least one unit of CPE
• Recommend placement of trained chaplains in local churches
• Develop partnerships with hospitals, our schools, and public institutions for clinical placements of CPE students
• Expand administrative staffing to support growth
• Position chaplains as bridge-builders in secular spaces

Closing Word of Gratitude

Chaplaincy Ministries is creating new pathways for ministry beyond the walls of the church. Through Clinical Pastoral Education and lay chaplaincy training, members are being equipped to serve with deeper empathy, spiritual insight, and professional effectiveness. I am deeply grateful to the Northeastern Conference administration for its continued support, and to Sister Avery Dawson for her faithful service. As Isaiah 61:1 (NKJV) reminds us, “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me… to heal the brokenhearted…” May we continue this sacred work, bringing Christ’s presence and peace wherever there is pain and need.

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