Chaplains in earlier times were known to be spiritual figures, prominently representing general Christian beliefs in more distant settings such as the armed services, or in medical emergency situations where you might see organizations like the Red Cross at work.
Over the years, due to the ever-increasing influx of diverse ethnic populations and the many non-Christian based faiths, the chaplain’s role has broadened to include assistance beyond that which is religious only. Spiritual care is not always seen as having religious connotations. For some time, New Age beliefs have been an influential part of society, and an understanding of those who claim to be more spiritual than religious has resonated with many people. This has come about in part due to cultural relativism and a post-modern world that does not see Christianity as the most influential belief. Thus, in some instances, a more generic type of spiritual help, almost likened to a mental health counselor, has become an important part of a chaplain’s work. Spiritual help might include conversations about life, death, purpose and possibly questions about God, but they also might be void of God entirely, aimed toward receiving emotional support alone. Religious topics may or may not be involved.
Nevertheless, a chaplain must be discerning as to the core needs of an individuals they are speaking with, noticing the unseen cues that a person is not fully disclosing. A chaplain most often is called upon to conduct religious services that align with that chaplain’s training and religious representation. They also provide other ministerial duties such as conducting weddings, funerals and pastoral counseling. Prayer support is also a part of this, but only to the point of a chaplain’s ecclesiastical endorsement. A Christian chaplain would not be required to offer Buddhist prayers, nor would a Muslim cleric be asked to conduct a ritual of Christian baptism.
For example, a chaplain may be called upon to provide support for a group who may have experienced a traumatic loss either stateside or in actual combat, offering debriefing assistance. They may be available as the go-to person, offering an attentive listening ear. The role has expanded to that of helper, emotional support, confidant, counselor, confessor and reliable friend, along with the regular religious duties they are ordained — or licensed — to perform.