What does chaplaincy look like when your context is a children’s ward, a school corridor or a secure training centre – and your conversation partners are toddlers, teens and everyone who cares for them?

How do you show the difference chaplaincy makes when so much of the work is hidden in quiet conversations, long journeys with people in crisis, or simply being there if needed?

Is chaplaincy only “proper” when it comes with a job description, salary and badge – or is professionalism something deeper? This episode dives into the tensions between paid and volunteer roles, training and formation, boundaries and holy ground, and invites you to rethink what makes chaplains truly professional. If you’ve ever wondered whether you count as a professional chaplain, this one’s for you.

This special episode of the Chaplaincy Chain Podcast marks Black History Month by listening to the voices of Black chaplains. Together, our panel shares their lived experiences of chaplaincy in the UK - affirming identity, dismantling stereotypes, and witnessing to God’s liberating love.

What happens when ministry sits 'between' institutions, identities and places - the shop floor, the towpath, the prison landing, the ICU bedside? In this episode, the team explores chaplaincy’s liminal nature and how 'in-between' spaces can become sacred places of honesty, hope and (sometimes) celebration.

Are chaplains truly part of the institutions they serve, or are they merely guests? Discover the surprising tensions and unique advantages of chaplaincy’s liminal role.

From unexpected beginnings to deeply fulfilling careers, this episode weaves together the inspiring stories of multi-faith chaplains. Hear how their personal journeys led them to serve diverse communities, the unexpected challenges they faced, and the profound impact they’ve had on the lives of others. Prepare to be moved by their dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to serving humanity.

Wider commitment to chaplaincy can often seem fragile. In this episode, we explore the value of research and how it helps tell the story of chaplaincy.