Who we are
The Center for Chaplaincy Studies is a hub for transformative education and professional development in spiritual care and chaplaincy. Rooted in a commitment to nurture courageous, compassionate, and creative leaders, we serve individuals and organizations dedicated to providing care in trauma-impacted communities. Since our founding in 2018, we have partnered with theological institutions, congregations, and community organizations to expand access to high-quality, adaptive learning opportunities.
“What I love most about being a chaplain is the recurring invitation to live into deeper humanity with others.”
“The world needs chaplains because the world is a place of great beauty and pain, and the work of healing, of witnessing, of solidarity and justice is much in need of attention and care.”
Our Approach
At CCS, we believe in educating chaplains the way a chaplain would: through relational, adaptive, and community-driven learning. Our courses and training services integrate conventional theological study with practical, real-world applications, ensuring that chaplains are prepared to meet the challenges of today’s spiritual care environments. Whether through semester-long courses, online learning, workshops, or intensives, our programs focus on helping students to develop key chaplain competencies while being designed to be flexible, accessible, and attentive to context.
Our History
CCS was established to respond to a growing demand for well-equipped spiritual leaders in an increasingly diverse and complex world. Recognizing the evolving role of chaplaincy, we pioneered innovative partnerships with seminaries and academic institutions, creating a network where chaplaincy education thrives. Over the years, we have helped shape spiritual care professionals across a range of contexts—from hospitals and the military to social justice movements and corporate spaces. More about the origins and contexts that led to our launch is available via this article from ATS’s Colloquy.
Why Chaplaincy Matters
The landscape of spiritual care is expanding rapidly, driven by profound shifts in how individuals and communities seek meaning and support. As traditional congregational participation declines, the need for chaplains who can serve in diverse settings—social justice initiatives, disaster relief, universities, prisons, and corporate environments—continues to grow. Chaplains are present during life’s most challenging and transformative moments, offering guidance, hope, and comfort to individuals and communities alike.
Chaplains play a vital role by addressing spiritual, emotional, and practical needs, bridging gaps in care where traditional support systems may fall short. From navigating grief and trauma to fostering resilience and ethical reflection, their work is deeply rooted in listening, cultural humility, and interfaith understanding. Whether responding to public tragedies or personal struggles, chaplains are trusted companions who bring clarity and compassion to complex situations.
In a world increasingly aware of the importance of holistic well-being, chaplains are at the forefront, helping individuals and organizations navigate uncertainty with courage and care. Ready to learn how chaplaincy can make a difference in your context? Explore Our Services or Contact Us to start the conversation.