Final Research Paper
“How Chaplains Spiritually Meet the Needs of Children and their Families.”
Earlisa Brockenberry – L27287122
CHPL681: Healthcare Chaplaincy (D01)
December 8, 2025
Contents
How Chaplains Spiritually Meet the Needs of Children and their Families............................1 ii
Introduction and Thesis Statement..............................................................................................1
Understanding the Spiritual Needs of Children in Chaplaincy.................................................2
Developmental Stages of Spirituality in Children........................................................2
Common Spiritual Concerns that Chaplains Face Serving Children.................................3
How chaplains address fear and anxiety in children.................................................3
How chaplains address loss and grief in children....................................................4
Helping children identify with their sense of belonging in relation to their illness.............4 The
Chaplains Role and Responsibilities in the Overall Spiritual Well-being........................5 for the
Caregiving of Children......................................................................................................5
Providing Emotional and Spiritual Support to Parents..................................................5
Facilitating Rituals and Ceremonies to Families.........................................................6
Offering Guidance and Counseling to Parents............................................................6
Challenges and Considerations Chaplains Face Ministering to Children................................7
Navigating Diverse Beliefs and Backgrounds of Families.............................................8
How Chaplains Should Address Institutional Constraints and Resources in Reference to
Children...........................................................................................................8
Maintaining Boundaries and Ethical Considerations of Families.....................................9
Conclusion......................................................................................................................................
9
Bibliography.................................................................................................................................11
1
How Chaplains Spiritually Meet the Needs of Children and their Families.
Introduction and Thesis Statement
In today’s rapidly changing and evolving world, children face a myriad of terminal
illnesses that can present challenges and stress on parents and family members, such as siblings
and grandparents, emotionally and socially, which requires a chaplain assigned to the family in
need. Spiritual challenges of faith in God and resilience in suffering can be overwhelming for
children and their families who believe in God for their healing. As children navigate the
complexities of their illness, the role of a chaplain becomes increasingly vital in one spiritually.
Moreover, some chaplains are specifically and specially trained to provide spiritual support and
guidance, serving as a light of hope for children and their families. Chaplains act as spiritual and
emotional advocates for children in various settings, including academies, clinics, and district
institutions, presenting the exceptional capability to encourage the spiritual development of
children, offering reassurance, expectancy, and interpretation of God's Word during trying times
of uncertainty. Here, this research will explore the fundamental ways in which chaplains meet
the spiritual needs of children.
First, this exploration will seek to understand the spiritual needs of children in the
chaplaincy ministry, fostering strength, promoting emotional well-being, and encouraging a
sense of belonging in a diverse and often turbulent world. Next, this research will explain the
roles and responsibilities of the chaplain in relation to the caregiving of children. Then, the
approaches used by chaplains in reference to the spiritual service of children and their families
will be discussed. And last, the challenges and considerations that chaplains face in serving
children will be explored in detail, offering a broader understanding of the crucial role chaplains
play in helping children and families navigate their life journeys with faith and confidence,
coping with their loved one's sickness. This research will show the integration of chaplaincy in
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pediatric healthcare not only discoursing the spiritual necessities of children and their families
but also encouraging the importance of faith during pressing medical developments.
Understanding the Spiritual Needs of Children in Chaplaincy
Understanding a child's spiritual necessities in chaplaincy concerns identifying their
requirements for intention, expectancy, love, and a feeling of belonging, which are frequently
studied through asking questions, an evaluation of their emotions, and a bond to someone
"Bigger", the Holy Spirit. Chaplains manage the needs of children by furnishing a safe,
nonjudgmental space to hear children, communicate with children with empathy, and defend
children and their families with their exceptional spiritual or religious trusts, without
broadcasting a specific faith. Egan states, “We have yet to find ways of making sure our children
develop what most consider to be essential “life skills” such as problem management,
opportunity identification and development, sensible decision-making, and the skills of
interpersonal relating.”1 Key spiritual needs of children include encountering a sense of purpose,
helping the child to feel loved and valued, sharing gratitude, and retaining hope, especially
during terminal illness or severe trauma (Proverbs 22:6, Psalm 127:3, Mark 10:14-16).
Developmental Stages of Spirituality in Children.
In chaplaincy, knowing that a child's spirituality evolves through stages from early
childhood (infancy) in the needing of basic "Trust," then moving to a realization stage
(preschool) with more of an imaginative state in believing characters such as Santa Claus and
the tooth fairy leading to an (early elementary) stage where the child becomes to know,
realize and understand stories, real-life and the distinct differences of excitement and joy
verses hurt and pain. In the adolescence stage, when the child becomes a teen, they evolve to
1 Gerard Egan and Robert J. Reese, The Skilled Helper A Problem Management & Opportunity
Development Approach to Helping. 11th Ed., (Cengage. 2019) 15.
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form more personal beliefs that may be impacted by their parents, family, friends, video
games, movies, or social media. In chaplaincy, it is very important to know the differences in
the age groups of children because counseling, advising parents, and communicating with
children in their different developmental stages interconnect with their prevalent mental and
emotional growth, concerning faith, often seen as a mixture of their emotions, and also their
cognitive limitations.
Common Spiritual Concerns that Chaplains Face Serving Children.
Chaplains will encounter children who may struggle to understand loss, whether it is the
death of a loved one or coping with their illness. Nye states, “For a child, however, spirituality
and faith are likely to be a complex mixture, where it is difficult to be clear about where one
thing ends and the other begins.”2 Chaplains who specifically serve children will navigate the
child's emotions and understand their circumstances. Chaplains must understand that children
encounter anxiety and dread related to illness, family problems, or personal security. Chaplains
can manage these worries by having a calming presence that promotes open conversation,
giving the Word of God, and spiritual guidance.
How chaplains address fear and anxiety in children.
A chaplain's goal when serving children is to furnish a safe space for children to voice
their suspicions and anxieties. By actively hearing children without jumping to a quick
conclusion, they enable children to feel dealt with. Newman states, “One way of perceiving this
is through that important childhood activity of play. Play is about experimenting and exploring
roles, relationships, and skills, and just enjoying things as an end in themselves rather than
2 Rebecca Nye, Dan Roberts, Claire Carson, Mary Robinson, Ryan Campbell, Krista Gregory, Kathryn Darby,
Paul Nash, Sally Nash, and Mark Bartel. Pediatric Chaplaincy: Principles, Practices and Skills, 1st ed. (London: Jessica
Kingsley Publishers, 2018) 17.
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because they serve a purpose.”3 A chaplain's overall presence can be favorable to kids because
they offer support and guidance, just like a schoolteacher helping children by simply being
there, which can support them in shedding emotions of loneliness and nervousness. For
children who have religious or spiritual knowledge from their parents, chaplains can deliver
prayers, traditions, or spiritual guidance that children can understand, which in turn will give
them reassurance and a feeling of direction amidst pressure.
How chaplains address loss and grief in children.
A part of a chaplain's role in serving children is to teach them valuable coping
mechanisms in relation to grief and loss, such as breathing practices, mindfulness strategies, or
visualization aptitudes that can help children to manage anxiety, which children love doing
because children like to feel like they are learning something fun Moreover, chaplains can use
age-appropriate Bible stories or parables, to address anxiety and resilience, when helping
children cope with death and loss in processing their emotions. In cases of grief and loss,
chaplains often team with other teachers and mental healthcare providers to comprehend the
child’s needs by creating a supportive network.
Helping children identify with their sense of belonging in relation to their illness.
By vigorously listening to the children's reports and situations, chaplains validate their
knowledge in helping children feel understood and related to, by strengthening their sense of
belonging. Nash states, “Facilitating meaning making is an integral part of spiritual care and it
may be that illness leads to questions that need exploring for children and young people and
their families.”4 Chaplains frequently encourage group exercises or support circles where
3 David Newman, growing up into the Children of God: Exploring the Paradoxes of Christian Maturity. 1st
ed., (Durham: Sacristy Press, 2019) 37-38.
4 Sally Nash, Paul Nash, and Kathryn Darby, Spiritual Care with Sick Children and Young People: A
Handbook for Chaplains, Pediatric Health Professionals, Arts Therapists, and Youth Workers, 1st ed. London:
(Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2015) 74.
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children can spend time with others with equivalent experiences, which promotes a shared
relationship that can encourage a healthy sense of community and belonging to examine their
spirituality and how it connects to their illness. Chaplains instruct children in expressing their
emotions connected to their illness, allowing them to combine their knowledge into their
uniqueness.
The Chaplains Role and Responsibilities in the Overall Spiritual Well-being
for the Caregiving of Children
Michelson states, “Chaplains are trained to support families facing challenges associated
with critical illness and potential end-of-life issues.”5 Chaplains play a vital role and responsibility
in addressing the unique spiritual requirements of children, cultivating resilience, and
encouraging emotional healing. Chaplains usually operate closely with parents, guardians,
caregivers, and healthcare providers to assure a holistic approach to caregiving.
Providing Emotional and Spiritual Support to Parents.
When chaplains foster an environment where parents feel relaxed voicing their feelings,
whether there are feelings of contentment, frustration, or dread. Sometimes, simply being
there is enough. Offering them "Presence," whether it is via a phone call, video chat, or in-
person visits, can oftentimes ease emotional hurdles that can display as overwhelming
obstacles. Chaplains can provide a ton of resources for parents. They can suggest different
books, articles, or support classes that focus on parenting challenges or spiritual development
that remind parents to take care of their mental health as well as take care of their children.
Doing this reminds parents to take time for themselves too, whether that suggests taking a brief
5 Kelly Michelson, Melanie Arenson, Elizabeth Charleston, Marla Clayman, Tracy Brazg, Karen Rychlik,
Abby Rosenberg, and Joel Frader. "Parental Views of Social Worker and Chaplain Involvement in Care and Decision
Making for Critically Ill Children with Cancer." Children (Basel) 9, no. 9 (2022): 1287.
6
walk, practicing mindfulness, or pursuing hobbies they love that bring balance to their life in
caring for their children (Proverbs 22:6, Deuteronomy 6:6-9).
Facilitating Rituals and Ceremonies to Families.
Chaplains start by committing families to understand their views, thoughts, opinions,
traditions, and preferences they accept the time to address families to consider what type of
ritual or ceremony would be most significant to them. By identifying the diverse backgrounds of
families, they seek to appreciate and integrate cultural, religious, and spiritual aspects that are
influential to those they serve. Whether it’s a funeral, a memorial service, a baptism, or a
marriage, chaplains customize family traditions to reflect their wishes. Chaplains often
encourage the household and friends to partake in the ceremony, authorizing them to
communicate recollections or reflections. This collaborative element can help in the healing
process for those accompanying. After the ceremony, the chaplain may offer continued help
through follow-up visits or counseling, supporting families as they progress through their grief
process.
Offering Guidance and Counseling to Parents.
Many parents desire spiritual counsel during challenging times while caring for their
children, and chaplains can enable them to analyze their feelings and values, offering parents
reassurance and perspective grounded in their faith. In times of their child's trauma—such as
sickness, failure, or family disagreements, chaplains can step in to supply direct support and
assist parents to manage their circumstances. Chaplains continually have learning of community
aids, such as support groups, therapy alternatives, and other services that can assist parents in
their healing journey. Some chaplains present parenting workshops or discussions that
concentrate on specific subject matters, such as communication strategies, conflict resolution,
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or dealing with distress. Chaplains can deliver continuous support for parents and do check-ins
for them, helping them set goals and cultivate healthy routines in family life.
Challenges and Considerations Chaplains Face Ministering to Children
Children of diverse ages understand and process data differently. Chaplains must tailor
their contact and communication to be age-appropriate, employing terminology and models
that resonate with children, whether they are toddlers or teens. Children can experience a wide
range of feelings, often influenced by their conditions and backgrounds. Chaplains need to be
attuned to children's different mental states, creating a safe space for them to communicate
their emotions, whether it is worry, pressure, or even joy.
Moreover, Donohue states, “Most families view a chaplain’s visit as supportive, but
those without religious affiliation might find it intrusive, and some might find it frightening if
perceived as associated with end-of-life care.”6 Children are constantly affected by their family
problems, which can include irregular levels of reinforcement and resilience. Chaplains should
think about their family dynamics and may need to confront parents as well to address the
needs of both the child and their caregivers. O’Brien states, “Nursing is a sacred ministry of
health care or health promotion provided to persons both sick and well, who require caregiving,
support, or education to assist them in achieving, regaining, or maintaining a state of
wholeness, including wellness of body, mind, and spirit.”7
Navigating Diverse Beliefs and Backgrounds of Families.
Chaplains must familiarize themselves with the cultural, religious, and spiritual
backgrounds of the families they serve. This includes understanding different approaches,
6 Pamela K. Donohue, Matt Norvell, Renee D. Boss, Jennifer Shepard, Karen Frank, Christina Patron, and
Thomas Y. Crowe. "Hospital Chaplains: Through the Eyes of Parents of Hospitalized Children." Journal of Palliative
Medicine 20, no. 12 (2017): 1352-1358.
7 Mary Elizabeth O’Brien, Spirituality in Nursing: Standing on Holy Ground., 7th ed (Burlington: Jones and
Bartlett, 2022) 28-29.
8
traditions, patterns, and belief systems. Crisp states, “Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism
all affirm that suffering is part and parcel of life, but they also teach that suffering can lead to
growth or transformation as the eventual outcome.”8 Continuous education and training can
enhance a chaplain's knowledge and keep them always prepared when serving children and
their families. Chaplains must take the time to listen actively to a family’s necessities, situations,
and
questions.
Furthermore, empathy plays a key role in establishing fellowship and faith. Having an
open dialogue can expose unique beliefs and what matters most to each family they serve.
Approaching each family with consideration for their beliefs, even if they conflict with their
own. Maintaining neutrality in meetings, permitting families to voice their stances without
drawing an immediate conclusion, is best when serving the needs of other religious beliefs than
Christianity. Moreover, chaplains must act as advocates for families within a more
comprehensive institutional framework, assuring that their cultural and religious requirements
are identified and accommodated.
How Chaplains Should Address Institutional Constraints and Resources in Reference to Children.
Chaplains must educate themselves on the institution’s policies, guidelines, procedures,
and approaches to serving patients regarding mental health, spiritual care, and child welfare.
This awareness allows them to helm the healthcare policies effectively and support the needs of
children. Building healthy relationships with instructors, healthcare providers, and social
workers is crucial because they can build a more collaborative team to better address the
holistic needs of children, incorporating spiritual care with educational and medical support.
8 Thomas M. Crisp, Psychology and Spiritual Formation in Dialogue: Moral and Spiritual Change in
Christian Perspective, 1st ed (Westmont: InterVarsity Press, 2018; 2019) 87-88.
9
Maintaining Boundaries and Ethical Considerations of Families.
Chaplains must designate clear professional boundaries to preserve a therapeutic
relationship. This includes specifying the limitations of their role, confirming that they do not
become excessively affected by the personal lives of families to prevent stress and burnout.
Clear communication about the chaplain's position can help families comprehend the support
they can anticipate from them. Respecting confidentiality is essential. Moreover, chaplains must
be conscious of what details can be shared and confirm that discreet conversations remain
confidential. Doing this builds trust with families and encourages open dialogue. Chaplains must
seek notified consent before furnishing support, especially in acute situations. This means
assuring that family members understand the nature of the chaplain's assistance and have
decided to engage in conversations or interventions. Chaplains should always engage in self-
reflection and be aware of their own beliefs, biases, and emotional reactions. This self-
awareness helps them to stay neutral and not impose their beliefs on the families they serve.
Conclusion
This research shows how chaplains guide children and families by spiritually meeting
their needs in hopes of miracles from God in expectancy during tough times. Through a
chaplain's presence in a children's hospital, they offer a listening ear for children, parents,
families, and staff, fostering a sense of community, making sure everyone is on the same page in
how to interact, communicate with, and meet the health needs of the children who are affected
by terminal illnesses. Moreover, this research shows how a chaplain seeks to understand the
spiritual needs of children in the chaplaincy ministry. It also demonstrates the approaches used
by chaplains in the spiritual service of children and their families, and the challenges and
considerations they face in serving children.
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Furthermore, by addressing the distinctive spiritual needs of each child and their
families, they not only inspire and motivate the spirits of those they serve but also empower
families to discover and encounter strength and reassurance in their belief in God. Because the
work of chaplains is vital in promoting the holistic well-being of children and their families,
confirming that children and families feel sustained, valued, and understood throughout their
journeys to wellness (2 Timothy 3:16-17; Psalm 23; John 15:12 and Matthew 25:40).
Bibliography
Crisp, Thomas M. Psychology and Spiritual Formation in Dialogue: Moral and Spiritual
Change in Christian Perspective. 1st ed. Westmont: InterVarsity Press, 2018; 2019.
11
Donohue, Pamela K., Matt Norvell, Renee D. Boss, Jennifer Shepard, Karen Frank, Christina
Patron, and Thomas Y. Crowe. "Hospital Chaplains: Through the Eyes of Parents of
Hospitalized Children." Journal of Palliative Medicine 20, no. 12 (2017): 1352-1358.
Egan, Gerard and Reese, Robert J. The Skilled Helper A Problem Management & Opportunity
Development Approach to Helping. 11th Ed. Cengage. 2019.
Lion, Alex H., Jodi L. Skiles, Beth Newton Watson, J. Daniel Young, and Alexia M. Torke. "Chaplain
Care in Pediatric Oncology: Insight for Interprofessional Collaboration." Pediatric Blood &
Cancer 66, no. 12 (2019): e27971-n/a.
Lyndes, Kathryn A., George Fitchett, Nancy Berlinger, Wendy Cadge, Jennifer Misasi, and Erin
Flanagan. "A Survey of Chaplains' Roles in Pediatric Palliative Care: Integral Members of
the Team." Journal of Health Care Chaplaincy 18, no. 1-2 (2012): 74-93.
Michelson, Kelly, Melanie Arenson, Elizabeth Charleston, Marla Clayman, Tracy Brazg, Karen
Rychlik, Abby Rosenberg, and Joel Frader. "Parental Views of Social Worker and Chaplain
Involvement in Care and Decision Making for Critically Ill Children with Cancer." Children
(Basel) 9, no. 9 (2022): 1287.
Nash, Sally, Paul Nash, and Kathryn Darby. Spiritual Care with Sick Children and Young People: A
Handbook for Chaplains, Pediatric Health Professionals, Arts Therapists, and Youth
Workers. 1st ed. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2015.
Newman, David. Growing up into the Children of God : Exploring the Paradoxes of Christian
Maturity. 1st ed. Durham: Sacristy Press, 2019.
Nye, Rebecca, Dan Roberts, Claire Carson, Mary Robinson, Ryan Campbell, Krista Gregory,
Kathryn Darby, Paul Nash, Sally Nash, and Mark Bartel. Pediatric Chaplaincy:
Principles, Practices and Skills. 1st ed. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2018.
O’Brien, Mary Elizabeth. Spirituality in Nursing: Standing on Holy Ground. 7th ed. Burlington:
Jones and Bartlett, 2022.
