Theologically, it entails many forms of the education of the spirit, the empowering of people to recognize and use creatively the gifts and abilities they have been given, assisting people of every faith in dealing with spiritual and emotional problems as well as with the intellectual challenges of religion, building up communities, working for reconciliation, advocating for persons and ideas that have no other voice,and promoting justice, peace, and service to others. Much of the chaplain's time is spent helping individuals find assistance for a broad range of issues. The chaplain conducts a ministry of visitation, when it is needed, visiting persons and families in hospitals, other institutions, campus residences,and homes. Part of the chaplain's ministry is a ministry of hospitality. The chaplain lives on campus and welcomes students at the Chaplain's Residence.
Students come with problems, seeking confidential discussion.
The chaplain holds a weekly supper on Wednesdays, called Pasta Night, in the Residence for students, faculty and staff. The chaplain plans and coordinates services of worship on a weekly basis and for special occasions such as Parent's Weekend, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Baccalaureate, Reunion Weekend, and Christian and Jewish holy days. Weekly Chapel services held during academic terms are available to everyone. Services are of an informal but serious nature, and often include discussion of a timely topic.