Chaplaincy in the Catholic High School by janet.bentham@ocsb.ca https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse Made with charisma en-us 2017-03-13 20:18:14 UTC 2024-12-08 21:00:39 UTC hello@padlet.com https://padlet-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/icons/Doubleheart.png janet_bentham https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169319599 Hoping people can post here. 

]]> 2017-05-02 02:14:43 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169319599 From: Gina Roy https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169420763 With the limited number of priests, the role of school chaplain is especially important and relevant in today’s times. I feel that students are more comfortable seeking advice from a chaplain than a priest. Although they provide spiritual support, they are also seen as a normal person and therefore approachable.]]> 2017-05-02 13:49:12 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169420763 From: Gina Roy https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169421244 It was interesting to see the wordle that Jan created with the words she gathered from chaplains. Community, compassionate, presence, faith, justice and hospitality are some of the words that they used to describe their role. I especially found the word “hospitality” unique in their portrayal of their role. Doesn’t this speak to this uniqueness of this role? A welcoming, warm reception makes a big difference with the youth who may be thinking of religion in a different way. I applaud the church for seeing the importance of chaplains and for including women in a role of leadership.]]> 2017-05-02 13:50:36 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169421244 Chaplaincy - Veronik Benjamin https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169565716 A chaplain is generally known to minister during a service, but their role consists of much more than just ministering, they are often involved in providing holistic support– providing counseling towards a person's social, emotional and spiritual well being. Chaplains often serve as guides in our spiritual journey, mentors of sorts that provide support to our diverse communities.  I am able to support this opinion through my own High School experience. I remember feeling a sense of support, community and ease when talking with our school chaplain and when sharing personal and family-related frustrations and hardships. I always felt an ease of welcomeness, an unhindered ability to share my difficulties in a safe haven of no judgement. I hope that my students too, will value the opportunity to speak with chaplains over the course of their Catholic Education, and that they benefit from the supportive environment available to them if ever they find themselves in need of it.]]> 2017-05-03 00:15:59 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169565716 From: Gina Roy https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169574123 My daughter’s school was faced with a tragedy, a death of a student at school. After viewing module 2 video, I could only imagine how incredibly important the chaplain’s role was during this incredibly difficult time for the whole school and community. 
Their “faith-presence” in the school brought a community in mourning together to counsel those who were suffering.
]]> 2017-05-03 01:44:32 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169574123 From: Gina Roy https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169574682 The importance of chaplains knowing their school community, as each are different, enables them to serve their school and community on a more personal level. Whether it be including liturgical dance by using the dance class or strong public speakers from the English class, this enables students to have a voice and presence in the liturgies. This creates a welcoming environment for the students to the religious experience. Jan mentions how the chaplaincy is shaped by the educational setting in which it’s carried out. Pastoral presence happens within the educational setting. ]]> 2017-05-03 01:49:48 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169574682 I am an elementary teacher with the Board and although our school does not have a Chaplain, I was able to make connections to how we are still able to take the "what" of the religious curriculum and translate it to the "how" of Christian living. We can show support and compassion for each other as staff as well as our students and their families. We hold monthly adult faith liturgies for staff before school. Each month teachers plan and hold a liturgy in the gym, sometimes with a visiting priest, many times just on our own. As well, each month a class is responsible for putting on a gospel value assembly. On another note, I was intrigued by your mention of Christian meditation. I've since perused several sites and am anxious to incorporate this practice in my classroom. This is yet another simple, quick way of integrating religious education and practice in our daily lives. https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169776147
Kim Byrd]]> 2017-05-03 19:06:03 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169776147 Kim Clermont https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169812269 My high school experience was very different from what you described, Jan, as I did not attend a Catholic HS, despite being Catholic and from a devout family.  (My grandmother was not happy with my mother about this decision).  But hearing about all the wonderful social justice initiatives and the opportunity for leadership, I feel I really missed out.  My HS was known city-wide for its excellence in academics and that is great but when I look back, it failed to develop the sense of community that I feel our Catholic HS are able to create, in great part to the role of the chaplain.  
I now wish the Elementary panel were blessed with even a part-time assigned chaplain, upping the importance yet not the workload, of the Faith Mentors.  I would also contend that Catholic teachers are also at different points on their faith journey and to have a part-time chaplain present may help them to better uncover their faith.  
Several years back now, I was very instrumental at my previous school to develop the template for the monthly Gospel assemblies and it was a joy to work with the faith mentor to look for pertinent Gospel readings that will speak to the students.  I am proud to say that that template is now used in my current school as well as in one other school, maybe more :)  More importantly, that experience certainly brought me further along in my faith, and religious literacy.
The journey of faith and walking with students in faith is an wonderful opportunity with which we are blessed and it holds great responsibility.  
Finally, I would like to assert that for me, in addition to EAs, OAs, ECEs, Teachers, Admin Staff etc., that the students play an important chaplaincy role at the Elementary panel and it is a blessed sight to behold when the social justice actions come from them.  They are vested, they are driven, they are walking our faith.  

]]> 2017-05-03 23:21:31 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169812269 lesyamarie_stocki https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169817763 My thoughts on the role of chaplaincy and the insights I’ve gained are that this role is essential and a necessary position in our Catholic schools. The role of the chaplain is to coordinate with the schools team and be involved with others in the provision of care and guidance within the school community. They play an important role in supporting students and strengthening faith within the school. Chaplains provide religious resources and to some students are counsellors for emotional support. In the lecture video, it also mentioned that it is an “invitational place for people to go”. It provides hope to students as well as demonstrates and models the strong working relationship with others (ie. Chaplains, Principals, Teachers etc.) The video also mentioned the importance of “Patrol Presence” and people who care about the children and their well-being. This is the heart of the Catholic Education Formation. Not only are students cared for but also staff. It was mentioned that they help in the time of crisis and work with the whole school community. As a teacher, it is nice to know that chaplains offer support to students and also staff. For example, if a family member passes or a family crisis occurs its reassuring to know that support is readily available. This also speaks for our “Faith in Action” supporting and educating staff on mental health and well-being. In summary the role of chaplaincy is an important, respected and valued position that speaks volume to our catholic community and family.  ]]> 2017-05-04 00:19:21 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169817763 Role of Chaplaincy: https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169896049 Brianne Nichols

I have been fortunate to work with some outstanding chaplaincy leaders at the various schools I have taught at over the past few years. In particular, I really connected with our chaplaincy leader at the high school I taught at last year. This was my first ever LTO, my first time at this school, and I was a nervous wreck. During our introductory staff meeting at the beginning of September, prior to classes starting, he said some very powerful things, one of those being how each of us has been called to be exactly here; it made me feel as if we had been hand-selected by God to teach in this school and care for these children. 

Later that afternoon, I asked him if he had some posters or anything to hang up about the Virtues of Character Formation or the Catholic Graduate Expectations, since I did not have anything like this to display. I remember breaking down in tears in his office as he asked me how I was feeling about the coming days. He certainly walked with me in faith that year. From sticky notes with encouragement and scripture passages placed in my teacher mailbox, to invitations to attend church together, to inviting me to be a part of the 24 hour famine for social justice… he helped me get through what was a very tough year. On top of that, my mom was diagnosed with cancer…again… and he was someone I could share my grief with and provide some comfort through sharing his faith. With the most amazing sense of humor and his musical talents, he had the ability to have the whole staff moved to tears one minute, and then roaring with laughter the next. I will never forget this particular chaplaincy leader. I wholeheartedly recognize how the role of chaplaincy leader is so crucial,  not just for students, but equally as important for the staff and administration too. 

]]> 2017-05-04 11:21:06 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169896049 Guidance josee_cousineau https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169990311 Chaplins have specific duties involving guiding during spiritual or emotional problems and they may provide help in difficult circumstances.  Chaplin can be advocates for the students and provide guidance. 
 - Family problems
 - being bullying
-  being lonely
- Substance abuse
-suicide
]]> 2017-05-04 16:34:27 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/169990311 Chaplaincy erin_hagan https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170073139 The experiences I have had with our high school chaplain have always been positive and supportive. The individual is there to support the staff and students in their faith journey or when a crisis arises. I remember in high school when there were tragedies, our chaplain were there to support, counsel and guide all of us. While doing my BEd., I was able to talk to and witness the amazing work the chaplain at Sacred Heart was doing. He was known, welcomed and interactive with so many of the students, both ⅞ and high school. He lead liturgies and social justice assemblies. As an EA I was able to interact with the chaplain at Notre Dame as I transitioned students into grade 7. I still recall the calm presence and care she had for her students. She encouraged their voice to be shared and the students knew their voices would be heard. Although I work in the elementary panel, the impact I have seen from these faith leaders has stayed with me over many years. 


]]> 2017-05-04 23:57:35 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170073139 The Role of Chaplaincy josee_cousineau https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170155663
The role of Chaplaincy in the schools is important in order to offer students support and guidance spiritually.  There was an interesting point made about the decrease in youth attendance in church but it remains that our youth is still very much spiritual.  This simply reinforced the importance of have a Chaplin in our school to help guide the students in their spiritual journey as they are our representative of the Christian faith. 

]]> 2017-05-05 12:17:57 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170155663 Teacher support josee_cousineau https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170156369
It is also important to have a Chaplin in our school to help the guide the teachers as well and offer them some insights.  They are an excellent resource to seek when needing clarification or finding creative ways to solve problem or help students.  In our school, I personally have felt great comfort knowing that I could go speak to my school Chaplin to seek insights on how to solve certain issues.  This person is also a very involved and active participant in the Christian community and is able to make reference to the bible and often present clarity.

]]> 2017-05-05 12:21:22 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170156369 Getting students involved josee_cousineau https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170156994

It is important to have the students get involved in the school and contribute to “faith in action” to create a sense of ownership.  Actions as simple as helping organize liturgy or Lenten projects, participating on the WE team and working on helping people (social justice) all impact our students and their lives.  The students can then see how they can make a difference and see how Faith is part of their daily lives even outside of the institution of the Church.  

]]> 2017-05-05 12:24:12 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170156994 josee_cousineau https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170158205
]]> 2017-05-05 12:29:52 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170158205 Chaplaincy in the Catholic High School https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170237832 I have only seen positive outcomes of having Chaplain leaders in our high schools. In recent years I have taught at SFX in a variety of roles and have seen so many beneficial outcomes of the relationships that students have developed with the Chaplaincy Leader. One chaplain, now retired, was so supportive of students during an unexpected death of a classmate and provided much needed counselling and guidance to those grieving. The most recent chaplain leader also leads students through a variety of social justice projects such as making sandwiches for the homeless.
Virginia Brophy]]> 2017-05-05 17:29:50 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170237832 Chaplaincy in the Catholic High School https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170240979 After watching your module lesson, I feel that Chaplaincy in schools creates hope and togetherness. It is the fulfillment of what they are supposed to be learning in Religious Education. Compassion, presence and hospitality are keys to Chaplaincy. They are considered (to me) a guiding light to the students. They are a symbolism of God and help students especially to deal with crisis's and horrible situations, ex. Death of a family member or friend. The role is to help plan liturgies and prayer, increase Catholic/Christian faith life, offer spiritual counseling, displays social justice and charity. Thank you! 
-Julie Menechian 
]]> 2017-05-05 17:41:38 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170240979 Chaplaincy mmedesjardins https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170271735 Chaplains play in integral role in our high schools - they help bring the students into their own spiritual self all while being part of the larger school community. From my own experiences with two amazing chaplains I’ve seen how they help students through difficult moments, offering an open door and a space free of judgement to express themselves. They offer a non-threatening environment for students to live their faith - promoting social justice and other events where students can interact with students they otherwise might not cross paths with, and where students can use their talents to contribute to the community. They demonstrate servant leadership at its finest - promoting a space where students (and staff) can grow and develop. They collaborate with staff, sharing resources and ideas, offering another approach or just a helpful listening ear to bounce ideas off of. And the help staff on their own faith journeys - at the start of every staff meeting our chaplain has some sort of reflection piece or quirky activity that has us reflect on an aspect of our faith, regardless of where we are on our path.   -Julie Desjardins]]> 2017-05-05 20:47:25 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170271735 The Role of Chaplaincy shannon_mclaren https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170277466 Based on my learning from the module and my personal experiences, a Chaplain is a spiritual leader for school communities whose role is to support Catholic teachings and promote inclusivity for and of all students.  He/She is the connecting piece that bridges together the relationship between church and school.  All of my experiences with a Chaplain have been very positive and I have been able to see the growth and development of student’s faith journeys under their guidance.]]> 2017-05-05 22:10:25 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170277466 Chaplaincy in Schools shannon_mclaren https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170277514 A Chaplain takes the teachings of the Bible and makes them relevant for all students; making connections to present day challenges which students face and drawing parallels to the challenges Jesus faced. With the decline of youth participation in Church, a Chaplain is able to promote student spiritually in an environment in which they feel safe asking questions about their faith and finding true meaning in their personal relationship with God.  The traditional means of demonstrating faith has shifted and chaplaincy provides an opportunity for students to express their faith through actions and in a way they feel most comfortable.]]> 2017-05-05 22:11:39 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170277514 Chaplaincy - Faith in Action shannon_mclaren https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170277561 Chaplaincy promotes putting faith into action. By engaging students in school initiated activities, bringing them on retreats, creating a youth group and participating in social justice campaigns, the Chaplin brings forth areas in which students can make change in the world.  By living as Jesus did, helping others and showing kindness students becomes more aware of their God given gifts of helping others. 

]]> 2017-05-05 22:12:36 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170277561 The blessing of chaplaincy in our schools https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170307737 In a time when religion seems to create larger divides amongst the people of this earth, widening the gaps between cultures, Catholic schools are offering a bridge between us all by creating a safe space to talk and discern. Chaplaincy gives us a venue to talk about our selves, our souls, our beliefs and feelings - to walk with one another on our spiritual journeys. Rather than focusing on what separates us, chaplaincy in our schools looks at how we are connected to one another and what we share with one another, all within our collective call to live in peace and harmony with each other and the earth. As we Catholic teachers share our stories of how Christ works in our own lives and if we continue to present the gospel ways that relate to our students lives, we draw our students in closer to one another and, most importantly, we open their eyes to how God is working in their own lives. 

by Jacqueline Lawlor ]]> 2017-05-06 13:34:23 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170307737 Chaplaincy https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170312082 Working in an elementary school, I do not got to experience that chaplain presence, so this module was very interesting for me. It definitely gave me a greater appreciation for the role of chaplaincy and has showed me what we are missing in elementary schools. Sadly we have had a quite a few tragedies and hard times amongst our staff in the last year and I can see how that chaplain presence would be an amazing support system. I have only experienced chaplaincy as a student in high school, I never really thought about the role a chaplain can play within the staff. I really liked in the video what was said about supporting the Atheist and walking together rather than pushing “my way is the only way”. I think that the role of the chaplain is a good example of this and can provide a lot of great support in times of need, making organised religion available in a non-invasive way, and just being someone that students and staff can turn to in times of need. Sometimes tragedy can cause faith to be questioned and we need that reaffirmation of someone walking with us and rebuilding our faith however that may look. 
-Sheri Sloan

]]> 2017-05-06 14:57:42 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170312082 Chaplaincy - Faith in Action rhonda_bell https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170312270 Rhonda
At the beginning of my career I was able to work with some amazing chaplaincy leaders who made an impact on myself and the students they were able to walk with.  When I became an elementary teacher that was one of the high school aspects I missed. Based on my experience and the teachings from this module I believe the Chaplain plays a pivotal role in Catholic education school system.  The Chaplain provides students with someone to walk with them through times of crisis.  Teaching students how to use their faith in times of crisis is one of the greatest gifts they will ever be given.  Inviting students into organized religion through the Gospel Values provides them with an opportunity to learn that being a Catholic just means being a good person. 

]]> 2017-05-06 15:01:11 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170312270 Chaplaincy in Catholic Schools: tanla065 https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170313360 Tammy Anlar 

After watching the video on the roles of high school chaplaincy I certainly see how important he or she can be in helping students in times of crisis, to answer questions and to help guide them in their faith journey. Growing up the services of a high school chaplain were not available to me and when I look back at my high school years I wish they were. I had several friends pass away during those years and I could have used a chaplain to talk to. I believe with so many issues today, such as the social media and the desire to always fit in, students need a guiding hand when questions or issues arise in their lives.  Therefore, to have that special person to go to would definitely help during times of uneasiness or even when they are not sure they are following the right path. Just to have a friendly welcoming face to bounce ideas off with little or no judgment would be helpful to many. I think that chaplains would also be very helpful in the elementary panel. I know we have faith mentors to help guide us, but I find with busy schedules there is not always time to help with the more in depth issues or with issues that may require more privacy. In these circumstances, a chaplain on-site would be most valuable. Chaplains are definitely needed all around the school systems in order to help build a faith-based community for students, parents and staff alike. Truly an excellent resource to have to help within our school system to continue to incorporate the teachings of Jesus Christ in understandable ways.]]> 2017-05-06 15:21:52 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170313360 Chaplaincy - Elementary vs. Secondary andrew_cloutier https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170314475 Chaplaincy presents itself differently when comparing its role in the elementary and secondary panels. At the secondary level, a chaplaincy leader provides guidance on practicing faith within the school community. A chaplain assists in community worship (liturgies, masses, etc.), prayer, and social action. The chaplain, along with administration, fosters parish to school dialogue. A chaplain may also be involved with youth ministry, counseling, and other extracurricular activities. 

At the elementary level, classroom teachers (administration or perhaps several teachers) serve this role. Sometimes this person serves as the Faith Mentor. I currently teach in the elementary panel and have taught in secondary. I have noticed quite a few differences with chaplaincy.  One or more teachers seem to fulfil the duties of a secondary school chaplain. Within my school community, a combination of teachers, students, community partners, and the administration fulfil the duties of a chaplain. Teachers and students co-construct, organize, and lead liturgies and masses. The administration tends to be responsible for fostering liaisons with the local parish, and the social justice club facilitates various social action projects. 

]]> 2017-05-06 15:41:13 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170314475 Role of Chaplaincy & Insights I would like to reflect on the role of chaplaincy by first discussing what chaplaincy as well as pastoral presence looked like when I was in elementary and then high school. Growing up and attending both Catholic elementary and high school, I always remember going to masses either organized at school or outside of school in a local parish. Being a student in both elementary and secondary school, I was never fully aware of those in charge of organizing these gatherings but my experiences were always positive and I have nothing but good memories. I don’t ever recall meeting a specific person termed “chaplain” so I’m not entirely sure if we had one, however, it was evident that students and teachers alike were all in charge of creating and maintaining the Catholic community. I am certain that these experiences together with my Catholic upbringing have enabled me to have a better appreciation as well as given me an increased eagerness to allow the students that I teach to experience the same. As a Catholic educator in a secondary school, I agree with the points that were made in the video regarding the roles that chaplaincy leaders have. They have a very unique, but nonetheless special and important job, much like us Catholic educators; to form students’ faith. As was mentioned in the video, some of the students we work with have very little understanding of what it means to have faith or as well may not be Catholic and so this task is not always easy. My experiences with the chaplains that I have worked with have been nothing but inspiring. They are always able to re-awaken one’s sense of faith it seems, even when all of us are too busy and tired. I do feel as though at times however, they are not given enough support and are sometimes faced with the task of trying to encourage children to undertake a faith journey all on their own. https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170332354 Isabel Tarnawski

]]> 2017-05-06 23:13:16 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170332354 Chaplaincy- new info for me https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170335016 As a teacher in elementary school, chaplaincy is not new to me but also not really something I'm very familiar with. After this module, I have gained a better understanding of the role in high school and can see the importance. As I read the words of your wordle, I could see words from our Catholic Character Formation resource book. The word that spoke to me the most was PRESENCE. It made me realize the importance of a presence of God in our high schools because of what God represents, who Jesus was(is) and that it should be at the heart of our schools. A felt presence is what should be at the heart of catholic education through a Gospel approach. I liked reading the other words as well, connection, justice, compassion, etc, all words associated with a true relationship of trust and guidance with our young students who often live through difficult times. I also realized the importance for staff members as well and the model of collaboration. With mental health issues and the importance of SEL, prayer can take an important role thus another area where chaplains would be deeply involved. They can be a true example of what values look like when they are lived and as you mentioned walk in faith with their students. It makes me wish we had a chaplain attached to our school. I realize that we could not have one full time but even just a few times a week. With all the mental health issues I could truly see this helping children feel connected, acknowledged, listened to and have some guidance and additional support that is much needed, especially one that is at the heart of catholic education.
Lina

]]> 2017-05-07 01:03:51 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170335016 Chaplaincy https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170358230 by
Melissa Benoit
 
It may because I am a fairly new teacher or the fact that I work in an elementary school (where no Chaplaincy Leader is appointed), but I had never heard of the term Chaplaincy Leader. One word that repetitively stood out for me in regards to chaplaincy was collaboration. Therefore, I believe the most important aspect of chaplaincy within our schools is the collaboration/working together between the school and this religious representative. From my understanding, the purpose of having a Chaplaincy Leader in Catholic schools is to deliver spiritual leadership to the staff and students of the school in order to increase the Christian faith life of these members. These Chaplaincy Leaders are able to offer a variety of faith experiences as well as provide resources in regards to religion and faith. As Catholic Educators, we do our best to assist our students on their journey of faith; however, I believe that the incorporation of Chaplaincy Leaders in our schools provides authentic learning to our students on their faith journey path as they are exposed to authentic people (chaplaincy leaders/a pastoral presence) who represent religion and the Church.
]]> 2017-05-07 12:55:54 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170358230 The Role of Chaplaincy in our Schools cdesc092 https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170363039 Although I work in an elementary school, I went to a French Catholic High School that had a Chaplain and he was very important throughout my journey as a teenager trying to find her place, her purpose, her vocation in life. I truly believe that having the presence of a Chaplain and a Sacred place for students and staff to go when they need to connect with God is a gift. Although we have Bible corners/tables in our classroom, going to this spiritual and sacred place gives us comfort and helps us to connect with God away from the busy, distracting hallways of a school. I believe the presence of a Chaplain is even more important today because we are often teaching students whose families do not attend church. This enables authentic spiritual experiences for our youth. I also love that Chaplains are "All-Inclusive" and support the diversity of faiths that are present in our schools today.  Chaplaincy plays an important role in Evangelizing today's youth and is there support staff in their own journey. The ultimate collaboration for Faith in Action! 
Carmen Gagné]]> 2017-05-07 14:25:00 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170363039 The Role of Chaplaincy in our schools carmen_gagne https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170365530 Although I work in an elementary school, I went to a French Catholic High School that had a Chaplain and he was very important throughout my journey as a teenager trying to find her place, her purpose, her vocation in life. I truly believe that having the presence of a Chaplain and a Sacred place for students and staff to go when they need to connect with God is a gift. Although we have Bible corners/tables in our classroom, going to this spiritual and sacred place gives us comfort and helps us to connect with God away from the busy, distracting hallways of a school. I believe the presence of a Chaplain is even more important today because we are often teaching students whose families do not attend church. This enables authentic spiritual experiences for our youth. I also love that Chaplains are "All-Inclusive" and support the diversity of faiths that are present in our schools today.  Chaplaincy plays an important role in Evangelizing today's youth and is there support staff in their own journey. The ultimate collaboration for Faith in Action! 
Carmen Gagné]]> 2017-05-07 14:59:54 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170365530 Chaplaincy in Our Schools https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170478651 The Chaplaincy role is very diverse and takes on different tasks each and everyday. Our board defines the role as, "[t]he chaplaincy leader assists the school staff and the parents in helping students to practice their faith,"  (OCSB, 2017). In my experience their role extends far beyond helping students practice their faith; the Chaplain often supports, staff, parents and students a like with any issues that arise in their everyday lives. When I worked in the high school panel, I was surprised to see how involved and connected the Chaplain was. They were an integral and valued member of the staff and always very involved with the students. The Chaplain had a way in which he could connect the students' everyday life with the teachings of the church. He made the church and faith tangible for not only the students but also the staff. In my opinion the Chaplain plays a vital role in our Catholic Secondary Schools. 

Shannon Aubut]]> 2017-05-08 11:47:06 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170478651 Chaplaincy - Faith in Action https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170638257
The point I found to be ]]> 2017-05-08 23:02:00 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170638257 Chaplaincy - Faith in Action https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170638322 What I found to be the most engaging element of the discussion on Chaplaincy is the role the Chaplain plays in the event of social crisis. As an elementary teacher in an underprivileged school, I often find that one of the roles I end up playing is that of a Councillor or confidant for students. While I am certain that my work in this role is helping the students, it is by no means my expertise. I believe that the strong social, emotional and spiritual guidance that a chaplain could provide would be invaluable for my students. It is unfortunate to only be able to provide this for our students as they get older because I believe that there is much that a chaplain could bring to the elementary school setting. I also think that the introduction of a more specialized religious educator within the school community would be beneficial for our students as we are seeing that more often, our students come to us with little background on their faith.

-Ian McLean]]> 2017-05-08 23:02:56 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170638322 https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170638821 By: Lise Riberdy

It’s simple! We care for the children and our peers and having the presence of a Chaplain in our schools is the greatest gift. The Chaplain is a spiritual leader in the Catholic faith.  The fact that he works closely with the school community and teachers is a great asset.  The students feels that there is someone present that can listen and guide them through different stages in their life without judgement.  Also, the Chaplain is present for the teaching staff.  The collaboration among the Chaplain and teachers displays that they work in community and shows compassion for their students. The aspect of the mental and well-being is very important since they need a guiding light and the Chaplain and teachers play an important role in this part.  Mediation and the mindfulness is key for the well- being of everyone. 


 



]]> 2017-05-08 23:10:22 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170638821 Chaplaincy https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170649439 Chaplaincy in our schools is important. I would like to comment on how following the model that is present in high schools would be helpful in elementary schools. Our parish priests who visit our schools regularly are wonderful, however, having a more permanent, constant presence would be great in the development of faith and great in supporting educators to be able to effectively guide faith learning. I certainly could use the extra guidance at times in developing faith-based learning for my students. I also feel that a Chaplain provides students with one more person in a school environment to answer questions about faith and to help create a faith-filled community feeling. 
-Katherine Reilley 

]]> 2017-05-09 01:11:13 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170649439 The Role of Chaplaincy in our Schools beth_macdonald https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170659892 Beth MacDonald
I believe that the role of a chaplain in Catholic high schools is a very important one, especially now that there are a limited number of priests. Chaplains play an important role in supporting and counselling students, and helping them on their own personal faith journeys. Chaplains can also provide religious resources to both students and teachers. In the module two video it mentioned that a chapel is an “invitational place for people to go”. I believe that providing this safe space for students to go who are in need of guidance or an escape is a wonderful addition to a school. This school year there have been a few schools within our school board that have had to deal with the death of a student. I can only imagine how difficult this must have been for the whole school community. In times like this I feel like the role of a chaplain is especially important. A chaplain is able to help those who are in mourning and create a real “faith presence” within a school.  In my opinion, having chaplains in the elementary panel would be great for our school communities. 

]]> 2017-05-09 02:51:30 UTC https://padlet.com/janet_bentham/nagbmru5ifse/wish/170659892