Today I started a part-time chaplaincy at Parkland Hospital in Dallas. Parkland is a public, education focused trauma hospital. What that means is that it's huge, all major injuries in Dallas end up there and it is filled with a melting pot of cultures, ethnicities and economics levels. My denomination the PCUSA requires a unit of Hospital Chaplaincy (CPE) to be ordained as a pastor.
This is something I've been excited about doing for a long time but it never seemed to be a good fit in my life. I know people who have tried to do CPE while also going to seminary and/or working full-time. My church has blessed me with giving me the flexibility to do this program for the next few months.
I haven't spent very much time in hospitals. I've also not really been exposed to very much pain, suffering or death. I know that this experience will be great for me and I'm praying that I am able to get much growth and learning out of it.
Most of you know that this is starting right at the same time I am going to Haiti which is a bit stressful. But, I believe God brought both these things into my life at the same time for a purpose.
On another note which is slightly more sad I did learn today that a button down shirt without a tie but with a sports coat is less dressed up than a polo shirt or turtleneck with the same sports coat. I guess this means I'll be wearing a shirt, tie and coat the whole time. I'm just not a turtleneck kind of guy.
Thanks for responding to this in obedience, Lars. This is an awesome, scary thing you’re doing. Way to step into the situations that will stretch you (like Haiti). Will be praying for this next season in your life. It was great to meet you while you were in Nashville.
One reason I married you…so grateful you’re not a “turtleneck kind of guy”!