Chaplain's Corner

By Joel Elmore, Chaplain & Activities Coordinator

It is with great joy and a heart full of hope that I introduce myself as your new Chaplain. My journey to this role has been shaped by a deep passion for ministry and a profound commitment to bringing the light of Christ to those who need it most.

To give you a little about my background, I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Covenant College. This was the start of my academic journey that allowed me to explore the depths of the human soul and its need for spiritual healing and hope. My educational path continued at Liberty University, where I earned a Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling. Throughout my time in seminary, I had the privilege of receiving the Charles Keesee Fund Scholarship, an honor that holds special significance for us here at HopeTree, as it bears the name of our own chapel.

I was ordained at Mill Creek Baptist Church in Fincastle, VA, where I had the distinct pleasure of serving as the Minister of Youth and Discipleship. This experience allowed me to witness firsthand the transformative power of faith and the hope it brings to individuals and communities.

My roots in the Baptist General Assembly of Virginia run deep, and I am proud to be a part of this faith tradition, which places great emphasis on love, compassion, and community.

As I step into my role as Chaplain at HopeTree, I find myself inspired and humbled by the unique opportunity before me. We are privileged to serve many residents each day who have faced unimaginable suffering and hardship. It is my fervent belief that every day, in my role as Chaplain, I have the privilege to point our residents to the hope and love of Christ. It is through this ministry of hope that we can help our residents regain a sense of purpose and faith in Christ's transformative power.

To achieve this mission, I have several exciting initiatives in mind: Firstly, I aim to continue strengthening the relationships we have with local churches and to establish new partnerships. It is through these connections that we can more effectively fulfill our mission statement: "Through God's love, we foster hope by empowering families, youth, and adults to lead fulfilling lives." Specifically, I am working closely with church leaders to provide spiritual care to our DDM (Developmental Disabilities Ministry) residents more consistently throughout the state.

Another endeavor I am enthusiastic about is bringing back the monthly chapel for our dedicated staff. In the past, this was a wonderful opportunity for our staff to come together for worship, encouragement, and fellowship. It is my hope that we can rekindle this source of spiritual nourishment and community.

Part of my redefined role as Chaplain includes planning and organizing activities. This aspect of my job primarily focuses on our Therapeutic Group Homes, where I work to provide engaging and meaningful activities for our residents. In recent months, these activities have included trips to the Starcade, attending a hockey game, participating in "Fields of Faith" (an event hosted by the Roanoke Valley Fellowship of Christian Athletes), and celebrating with a Halloween party. Looking ahead to December, we are excited about the upcoming Christmas party, a visit to Illuminights, and a nativity scene event.

I am deeply honored to be a part of the HopeTree family and am enthusiastic about the opportunity to work with each of you in bringing hope and faith to our residents and staff. Together, we can create a positive and transformative impact on the lives of those we serve

Thank you for your warm welcome and for allowing me the privilege of serving as your Chaplain. I look forward to walking this journey of faith and hope together with you.

In His Service,

Joel Elmore Chaplain & Activities Coordinator