Training for those who sense a call to serve as a Chaplain for Christ United Methodist Church will begin in July. The consecrated Chaplains have as their primary ministry serving the pastoral needs of the members, visitors and friends of Christ United Methodist Church. The basic gifts and graces required of the chaplains include: a strong personal faith, compassion, being committed to serve others, and openness to learning. They must also have personal transportation and a flexible schedule to allow for making calls as required (day, night, weekend -- 24/7).

Further requirements include completion of the entire 6-month Chaplain Training Program and participation in bi-monthly continuing education after initial training. Training will include enhancement of listening skills, commitment to code of confidentiality, skills at dealing with stress, crisis, death and dying, appreciation of diversity in all of its dimensions -- personal, spiritual, faith, social.

For further information or to schedule an interview, contact Walt Purkey at walt@cumc.com or Marylin Smith at marylin@cumc.com.