Page 11 - Presbyterian Connection

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WINTER 2021
Connection
ECUMENICAL
PRESBYTERIAN
11
Ecumenical Chaplaincy at Brock University
By the Rev. Krista Hilton, ecumenical chaplain.
“We have not ceased praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and understand- ing, so that you may lead lives wor- thy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him, as you bear fruit in every good work and as you grow in the knowledge of God.” Colossians 1: 9b–10
It is my pleasure to introduce myself as the new ecumenical chaplain at Brock University in St. Catharines, Ont., jointly suppor ted by the An- glican, Presbyterian and United churches. I began in the position on April 1, 2021, and I’ve been settling into the role these recent months. Due to Covid restrictions, Septem- ber marked the first time I was able to physically be present on campus.
Chaplaincy at a university provides spiritual and pastoral care to students
and staff via a ministry of presence, outreach and faith exploration. I now have the privilege of walking with uni- versity students as they discern the pathways for their future and learn to listen to how God is guiding them. Entering university is both an exciting and scary time for many of them. It is often a time of budding independ- ence, exploring new ideas and ways of being in the world. This can be challenging, confusing and mind- broadening all at the same time. A university chaplain provides a min- istry of presence: a person who will walk alongside and provide a safe space for wrestling with new con- cepts, light bulb moments and even discovering new identities.
Given the challenges we’ve all faced during the pandemic, I de- cided to offer a program this fall that examines the intersection of faith and mental health. The program is called “The Sanctuary Course,” and it’s an online, ecumenical pro-
The Rev. Krista Hilton, ecumenical chaplain at Brock University in St. Catharines, Ont.
gram that explores the topic from a psychological, social and theo- logical perspective. Additionally, each session is accompanied by a compelling film featuring the story of an individual who has journeyed through mental health challenges as a person of faith. This course was created to raise awareness and star t conversations about mental health in the church, and it combines clini- cal research, theological practice and lived experience. The program
helps to reduce stigma, suppor t mental health and promote mental well-being. It is a very user-friendly program and is suitable for congre- gations. I would highly recommend it! More information can be found at sanctuarymentalhealth.org.
Since I’m new to the position of chaplain, I’m beginning my role by making connections with local churches; for example, I’m glad to facilitate shared ministries between local congregations and Brock
University students, who are often looking for volunteer oppor tunities. Much of the role as chaplain in- volves building bridges and creating liaison opportunities. I encourage students at all educational institu- tions to reach out to the campus chaplain as a resource for suppor t, encouragement and spiritual guid- ance. Lastly, I welcome prayers for all campus ministries, that they may be a place of welcome and accept- ance for everyone.
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