Date
5-20-2026
Department
Rawlings School of Divinity
Degree
Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
Chair
Robert C. Greer
Keywords
chaplaincy, spiritual care, hospital ministry, pastoral care, end-of-life care, sacramental boundaries, Christ-centered training, healthcare chaplaincy, pastoral formation, action research
Disciplines
Christianity
Recommended Citation
Anucha, Fred Okechukwu, "Walking with the Wounded: Chaplains as Agents of Christ’s Healing Ministry" (2026). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 8507.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/8507
Abstract
This Doctor of Ministry action research project evaluated the effectiveness of an eight-week Christ-centered training intervention designed to strengthen hospital chaplains’ confidence and clarify sacramental boundaries in end-of-life care at AdventHealth Celebration. Hospital chaplains frequently encounter situations in which patients and families request sacramental or spiritually significant practices during moments of crisis, yet chaplains often lack structured training that addresses how to respond with both pastoral sensitivity and theological clarity within a multifaith healthcare environment.
The project implemented an eight-week training program that integrated theological reflection, case-based discussion, and practical ministry applications intended to strengthen chaplains’ confidence in providing spiritual care while maintaining appropriate sacramental boundaries.
Data were collected using pre- and post-workshop questionnaires, reflective journal responses, and follow-up discussions with participating chaplains. These instruments assessed participants’ perceived confidence, pastoral intentionality, and clarity regarding sacramental boundaries in hospital-based ministry. Results indicated measurable increases in chaplain confidence, improved awareness of sacramental boundaries, and greater intentionality in responding to complex pastoral situations in end-of-life care. Participants reported that the training strengthened their ability to offer compassionate spiritual care while maintaining theological integrity within the clinical environment.
This project demonstrates that structured Christ-centered training can enhance chaplain preparedness in hospital settings and provides a replicable model for strengthening pastoral formation within healthcare chaplaincy.
