The Role of the Chaplain in 
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Scoil Phobail Bheara

               
The primary role of the school Chaplain is that of a faith presence in the school. 
I work closely with all members of staff to carry out this responsibility and also extending this to the local parish community. This role is wide and varied ranging from teaching religious education, organizing retreats/ prayer events, meeting students as groups and on an individual basis and taking an active part in all areas of school life. The role of chaplain is a professional one and a privileged responsibility.

The Chaplain’s areas of ministry include: 

• Listening
• Pastoral Counselling
• Spiritual Direction
• Support in crises
• Trauma Management
• Liturgical Celebrations
• Prayer Experiences
• Sacraments

Sometimes it can be difficult to define the role of the School Chaplain in a single measure.The interesting and challenging aspects of chaplaincy lie in the various elements of the vocation.Chaplains do anything and everything- there isn't really a typical day.I attempt to makes this job my own- using my unique talent and skills. I do plan each day, week, month and year however these plans may all change at a moment’s notice despite all best intentions and flexibility is a constant necessity.There are certain things which must be considered each week such as classes, prayer services, these are marked into my weekly plan in my diary.

The role of the Chaplain incorporates a journey of mission to bring the good news of the Christian message to the school community. Just as Christ and the Apostles walked with the people of their time so we walk with our people in our time.We are, as the Gospels say, Christ’s body on earth.It is the Chaplains love for the message of Christ that allows us to be a presence within our school and we bring the love of Christ to those we meet each day. Bearing in mind the old adage “faith is caught and not thought” I consider my actions, not simply words, to be of up most importance at all times.

Like any Journey there is a mystery about what one will meet or
run into along the way.It might be the death of a student, a teacher or a family member.It is during these times I comfort and console those who are
bereaved.I support through my presence and listening, helping them to grieve the loss they have experienced.I try not to-seek answers; I am merely willing companion along the way.

My role incorporates helping the lonely first year student who
is finding it difficult to settle into a new school.I feel it is of up most importance to meet each and every first year on a one- to one basis before the end of the year.This is a time consuming job and usually stretches into the second or even third term.

I might be listening to someone who is self- harming, listening to someone who is being bullied, helping someone understand what causes them to bully.It might be listening to the child who is affected by marital breakdown.I could be in hospital to visit someone who is sick or in the home visiting a student’s family. I do not have all the answers but can help people discover them and by discovering for themselves they may find a brighter future.

Privacy is constantly to the forefront of my mind however I inform all pupils of my confidentiality policy in first year- harm to themselves (by themselves or another) , to others or to property will be the only reasons I must speak to others without their permission.Where possible I seek to give pupils the confidence and skills to empower them seek their own solutions- they will be asked what they feel is the best course forward.

In my role as Chaplain in Scoil Phobail Bhéara I feel I am someone who must have a spiritual and physical presence in the school community. Wherever possible I attempt to reflect Christ’s approach to people when on earth.I shall endeavour to be non-judgmental, never presuming and always willing to listen.As I journey with this community I feel it my duty to should bring hope, love, kindness and understanding to the everyday events.This is a very privileged position-one not to be taken lightly- it is a role which chooses you and you in turn must give it everything.

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> Rainbow Bereavement
> Support For Parents

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Is anyone happier because you passed his 
way?

Does anyone remember that you spoke to him 
today?

This day is almost over, and its toiling time 
trough.

Is there anyone to utter now a friendly word for 
you?

Can you say tonight in passing with the days that slipped so 
fast

That you helped a single person, of the many that you 
passed?

Is a single heart rejoicing over what you did or 
said?

Does one whose hopes were fading now with courage look 
ahead?

Did you waste the day, or lose it? Was it well or poorly 
spent?

Did you leave a trail of kindness or a scar of 
discontent?

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