Ashlar Seeks Chaplain Volunteers

A chaplain volunteer at Ashlar of Newtown shared, “I was a teacher for many years and always found that work very fulfilling. My ministry with the residents at Ashlar of Newtown is equally fulfilling.”

Ministry with the residents at Ashlar of Newtown is a mutual ministry. The chaplain volunteers bring spiritual care and resources while learning from the stories of the residents’ lives.

Ashlar of Newtown’s chaplain, the Rev Anne Baltzell, is currently accepting applications for the ninth series of her “Lay Training in Geriatric Ministry” program which begins in late spring.

The program teaches basic ministry skills to community volunteers who then devote up to four hours a week of spiritual care for a year at Ashlar of Newtown. Skills learned may also be applied to ministry in church and community.

Open to individuals of all faiths, participants take part in an eight-week course, which covers such topics as pastoral conversations with elderly persons, grief and loss, and ethical issues in the nursing home setting. Monthly continuing education sessions are offered following the training. This is an excellent opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of older adults, Chaplain Baltzell said.

For additional information, call Chaplain Baltzell at Ashlar of Newtown at 203-426-5847.