Search site...

Sparking Practical Innovation in Spiritual Care

Come work with us! We're hiring a research specialist.

The Chaplaincy Innovation Lab (CIL), based at Brandeis University, launched in October 2018 to bring chaplains, theological educators, clinical educators and social scientists into conversation about the work of chaplaincy and spiritual care.

As religious and spiritual life continues to change, the CIL sparks practical innovations that enable chaplains to nurture the spirits of those they serve and reduce human suffering. Our work is shaped by four central commitments maintained by all who are connected to CIL. Learn more about our principles here.

We value learning together.

We believe collaboration leverages our strengths and expands community benefits.

All are welcome.

We foster care that is responsive to all individuals, regardless of present or past spiritual or religious affiliation (including none), race, nationality, sexual orientation, ability, and gender identity.

We respect differences.

We do not seek to proselytize, convert, or otherwise convince others of a particular religious or spiritual conviction.

We are research-driven.

We gather, foster, and share rigorous academic research about the provision of spiritual care across a range of settings to enhance best practices and improve delivery of care.

FREE REPORT

Jewish Chaplaincy in US. Twitter Fall 2022 1600x900 (400 × 400 px)

Mapping Jewish Chaplaincy

Study of 1,000 Jewish chaplains finds a vital resource is overlooked. Report from the Chaplaincy Innovation Lab calls for more prominent role for chaplains. See the story and get your full report here. 

NEXT WEBINAR

Psychedelics webinar

Psychedelics & Spirituality 

Chaplains work in diverse healthcare settings and many are trained in psychedelic-assisted therapy. This external event is sponsored by the Lab. Dec. 12, 12PM Eastern. Register here.

YOUR FUTURE

Image directing traffic to page showing videos on employer expectations for chaplains

Demand for Spiritual Care 

In these videos, leading spiritual care providers from a variety of sectors in which chaplains serve, discuss what it is those sectors need. Prepare for your future. Watch these! 

What people are saying

Appreciation

Webinar attendee, "Caring for the Caregiver Town Hall"

I am appreciative of your service to the chaplaincy community.

Timely

Webinar attendee, "International education"

CIL is a timely, compassionate resource. Thank you for sharing wisdom, experiences, questions, and challenges.”

Practical

Webinar attendee, "Staff care and ritual"

It was so practical; I have already shared content with my manager.

Appreciative

Webinar attendee, "Spiritual care of the non-communicative"

I so appreciate this organization and its educational resources!

Sacred Work

M.

Thank you for the sacred work you do.

Incredible Webinar

A. B.

I just wanted to thank you for making this incredible webinar available. That hour gave me a sacred space of hope that also allowed for tears. I carry the insights and spirit of that hour with me and share it with others. I am so very grateful for the work all of you do.

Useful and Informative

K. A.

One of the most useful and informative panel discussions that I have ever listened to.

Heart-centered

A. A.

Impressive to see such heart-centered professionals speak about the needs of this time.

Feeling More Connected

C. N.

I appreciate feeling more connected with others around the country.

Bright Spot

J. M.

CIL resources have truly been a bright spot in these dark times.

Upcoming Webinars

Eco-chaplaincy Psychedelics and Spirituality

Date: December 12, 2023

Professional spiritual care practitioners (chaplains) work in diverse healthcare settings and many are trained in psychedelic-assisted therapy. With expertise in psychology, spirituality, religion, and existential care, they support health outcomes and meaning-making, and represent diverse religious, spiritual and humanist traditions.

Thinking and Rethinking Chaplaincy

Start date: February 9, 2024

End date: February 10, 2024

New for Spring 2024 – a partnership between Chaplaincy Innovation Lab and Union Theological Seminary!

Spiritual Infrastructure for the Future

Start date: March 5, 2024

End date: April 2, 2024

New for Spring 2024 – a partnership between Chaplaincy Innovation Lab and Union Theological Seminary!

See all Webinars

Newsletters

Keep up to date with our Newsletters and sign up to have them sent directly to you.

Our Newsletters

Social Info

Follow us online!

ChaplainLab
Join Our Private Chaplains' Group
twitter icon @ChaplainLab
chaplaincy-innovation-lab

FREE eBooks! Resources & Inspiration for Chaplains!

The Chaplaincy Innovation Lab offers eBooks on a growing variety of topics. These resources are offered freely for use by all. If there are topics or ideas you’d like to see explored in an eBook, please reach out. All of these eBooks are created by CIL staff, partners, supporters, and experts in their field. Get yours HERE!

chaplains eBook collage 5 samples