Involved with Mankind: A Theology of Chaplaincy
Creators: name: Milton, Michael A.
Publisher: name: figshare
Year: 2023
Subjects: Theology
Sociology of religion
Religion, society and culture
Christian studies
Philosophy of religion

description: "Involved with Mankind: A Theology of Chaplaincy," explores the role of chaplaincy as a distinct expression of Gospel ministry within the broader mission of the Church. The article acknowledges that while some view ordained ministry solely in the context of local congregations, it is essential to recognize the integrity and significance of chaplaincy as a genre of ministry. The tension between perceiving chaplaincy as an anomaly or as a strategic and historical expression of pastoral ministry is addressed through a theological reflection grounded in Scripture and practical experience. The article begins by highlighting the growing phenomenon of chaplaincy amid declining church attendance. As local pastors face burnout and attrition rates rise, chaplaincy programs within seminaries are experiencing growth. The Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree, traditionally associated with ordained ministry, is being replaced by the Master of Arts (MA) degree in many instances. Theological seminaries are recognizing the need to offer specialized education for chaplaincy, resulting in partnerships with agencies providing Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE). The Institute of Clinical Pastoral Training (ICPT), an evangelical alternative to established programs, has achieved record enrollment and popularity. This shift in theological education prompts the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) to take notice of the significance of chaplaincy. ATS member schools are increasingly incorporating chaplaincy programs and degrees into their curriculum. The association has even granted funding for the establishment of a center for chaplain studies at one of its constituent schools. The article emphasizes that chaplaincy serves diverse settings, including hospitals, higher education, military institutions, and emergency response organizations. By examining the growth and importance of chaplaincy within the context of declining theological education, Dr. Milton highlights the need for theological reflection on the theology of chaplaincy. The article argues that chaplaincy is not an anomaly but a vital and dynamic vocation that warrants attention and support within the mission of the Church. It seeks to provide a theological framework to guide the practice of chaplaincy and foster a deeper understanding of its role within the broader context of ministry and service to humanity.Dr. Michael A. Milton's scholarly article, "Involved with Mankind: A Theology of Chaplaincy," explores the role of chaplaincy as a distinct expression of Gospel ministry within the broader mission of the Church. The article acknowledges that while some view ordained ministry solely in the context of local congregations, it is essential to recognize the integrity and significance of chaplaincy as a genre of ministry. The tension between perceiving chaplaincy as an anomaly or as a strategic and historical expression of pastoral ministry is addressed through a theological reflection grounded in Scripture and practical experience. The article begins by highlighting the growing phenomenon of chaplaincy amid declining church attendance. As local pastors face burnout and attrition rates rise, chaplaincy programs within seminaries are experiencing growth. The Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree, traditionally associated with ordained ministry, is being replaced by the Master of Arts (MA) degree in many instances. Theological seminaries are recognizing the need to offer specialized education for chaplaincy, resulting in partnerships with agencies providing Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE). The Institute of Clinical Pastoral Training (ICPT), an evangelical alternative to established programs, has achieved record enrollment and popularity. This shift in theological education prompts the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) to take notice of the significance of chaplaincy. ATS member schools are increasingly incorporating chaplaincy programs and degrees into their curriculum. The association has even granted funding for the establishment of a center for chaplain studies at one of its constituent schools. The article emphasizes that chaplaincy serves diverse settings, including hospitals, higher education, military institutions, and emergency response organizations. By examining the growth and importance of chaplaincy within the context of declining theological education, Dr. Milton highlights the need for theological reflection on the theology of chaplaincy. The article argues that chaplaincy is not an anomaly but a vital and dynamic vocation that warrants attention and support within the mission of the Church. It seeks to provide a theological framework to guide the practice of chaplaincy and foster a deeper understanding of its role within the broader context of ministry and servic