Chaplaincy Training: Not Just for Chaplains

Chaplaincy Training: Not Just for Chaplains

Virginia and Texas Baptists have been in a chaplaincy partnership since 2016—a partnership which has resulted in meaningful resourcing and networking. One of the best opportunities that has arisen in this relationship is the annual Chaplain and Spiritual Care Training event that is offered in the spring in Virginia. This year’s event will be at the BGAV Richmond office from April 19-22, 2020—and it’s not just for chaplains.

BGAV Coaching Network Director Ken Kessler leads a discussion on coaching with training participants.

Leaders from Texas and Virginia will lead the training courses, which fulfill the endorsement requirements for chaplains (16 contact hours of training are required for continuing education credit for professional chaplains).

The training is not only for professional chaplains, however. Bobby Smith, Director of Chaplaincy Relations for Texas Baptists, explained, “The training benefits any Christian. Learning pastoral care skills and ministry tools like these will make anyone a better Christian caregiver. God calls all Christians to be in the priesthood of believers.”

Training attendees listen as a Disaster Response chaplain volunteer teaches about good communication with those affected by a natural disaster.

Training courses at this year’s event include Baptist Distinctives, Peer Support for First Responders, Coaching for Pastors and Chaplains, Introduction to Intentional Interim Ministry, Correctional Chaplaincy, The Art of Facilitating a Learning Event, and Disaster Spiritual Care.

Todd Combee, Pastor of New Bethesda Baptist Church in Mechanicsville, VA (a BGAV congregation), serves as BGAV’s Director of Chaplain Relations and is a critical part of the Texas/Virginia relationship. “One thing that drew me,” he commented, “is how this creates a comprehensive atmosphere of support. It makes us better at what we do.”

Anyone interested in honing their ministry skills in any of the areas covered in this training is welcome to attend. For more information, visit BGAV.org/Chaplain-Training-April-2020 to register or email Todd Combee at todd.combee@bgav.org.