“I’m In Charge of Celebrations” : Reclaiming Joy in Pediatric Chaplaincy

The word Joy may sometimes find an unsettled spot in the pediatric chaplain’s spirit. Where is joy? Are chaplains allowed to feel joy? Do chaplains create joy? Spark joy? Point to the moments of joy already at work in their professional and everyday lives? 

This 6 hour pre-conference intensive workshop, facilitated by members of the Pediatric Chaplains Institute faculty, will lead participants through a deep reflection on the nature of joy. Using elements of children’s literature, pop culture, play, small group and large group discussions, participants will be encouraged to rethink, and perhaps reclaim, joy as meaning, sustenance, resistance, and spirit: an essential part of the pediatric chaplain’s work and worthy of being celebrated. Chaplains will not only benefit from deep personal reflection, but also from concrete skills development and practice to employ in their clinical environments to support patients, families and children. 

Monday, May 5, 2025: 9am-3pm (lunch included);

Fee: $200 (this is an add-on to the main conference registration, includes meals and lodging for Sunday PM arrival as needed).