Mission
Chaplaincy
Through Chaplaincy, the Presbyterian Church in Ireland is able to reach into a wide variety of places where any single local congregation often cannot. Whether in hospitals, prisons, universities, the armed forces or the rural community, chaplains embody Christ’s care and presence in the midst of everyday life.
Understood as a ministry of presence, at its heart, chaplaincy is about care, presence and hope. Chaplains come alongside people in times of need, offering pastoral support, spiritual guidance, and a visible reminder of God’s love. They help maintain connection with church members who may be displaced from congregational life, and they provide a compassionate presence for all – regardless of background – in some of life’s most challenging settings.
As ambassadors of Christ and His church, chaplains serve in a professional, collaborative and Spirit-led way, building bridges between faith and society. Their work is both pastoral and missional: listening, comforting, and sensitively pointing to the hope found in Jesus.
This ministry depends on the prayer, encouragement and support of the wider church. By resourcing and equipping chaplains, PCI continues to ensure that the gospel is faithfully and lovingly lived out in the public square.
If you would appreciate linking with the services of a chaplain, please consult the following list below of current and active chaplains serving on behalf of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland.
Chaplaincy: a ministry of presence
The Chaplaincy: a ministry of presence report seeks to clarify a vision for chaplaincy and capture the essence of a chaplain’s role in clear and helpful ways. Initially compiled by the Council for Mission in Ireland and approved by PCI’s General Assembly, this report is now offered as an encouragement to those currently engaged in chaplaincy and a guide to those stepping into such roles. It seeks to highlight the calling of chaplains to be ambassadors of Christ and his church, while serving in a professional, collaborative and Spirit-led way that builds bridges between faith and society.
Chaplaincy A Ministry of Presence