The phone call was unexpected, asking if I could report to a location we don’t usually serve. A husband was lost to suicide. The wife, to whom I was sent, was deeply distressed by the news. In fact, she began to cry out, “No, no, it’s not true!” and she attacked the officer who informed her.
When I arrived on the scene, the officer was deescalating the situation and laying the groundwork for her to speak with me. “Ma’am,” the compassionate officer said, “I could arrest you for assaulting an officer. But I understand that this has been very difficult for you. If you will talk to the chaplain, and be calm, I’ll forget it happened.”
From that beginning, the Lord gave us many conversations through multiple meetings, joint trips to the Coroner’s office and a funeral. This was a close-up encounter with the pain left in a family following a suicide. Chaplains go there bringing the balm of Gilead.
Through the waters, I will be with you. – Isaiah 43:2
As God Lights Our Way Translation - Even when problems flood into my life, God is there.
...spiritual wounds in need of spiritual healing.
Institutional Ministries chaplains care! We want you to know that you aren't alone. We are ready to provide confidential help. Support groups are available.
Moral Injury
Moral injury happens to the heart and to the soul. Usually, it is the result of an individual causing harm to self or others. It is a personal encounter with a situation which no one should have to endure. Most people try to avoid confronting moral injury; chaplains go there addressing it head-on.
What is a chaplain? Someone who willingly meets people where they are, empathizes with them in their situation, and offers them comfort from God. Chaplains go there, bringing the balm of Gilead, the healing comfort of love, which we have learned from Jesus.
Learn more about Moral Injury and how our Chaplains can help!
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. - Psalm 147:3