Brandeis University '22
The Chaplaincy Innovation Lab (CIL) 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:
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 convene organizations, institutions, individuals and stakeholders interested in any facet of chaplaincy.
We respect differences. We do not seek to proselytize, convert, or otherwise convince others of a particular religious or spiritual conviction. We support a professional field cognizant of and responsive to cultural and individual differences in all forms.
We value learning together. We believe collaboration leverages our strengths and expands community benefits. People doing the work of spiritual care can learn much from (and with) one another beyond their specific setting. Engaging those who become, train or work with chaplains fortifies the foundation for our field. Similarly, we nurture connections with social scientists, religious leaders, and civic leaders. We believe that spiritual care is best provided through collaboration across disciplines and communities
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. We privilege applied, praxis-oriented research and feedback loops that include clients, practitioners, educators and researchers in a way that strengthens the work of spiritual care.
The Chaplaincy Innovation Lab Advisory Group is a gathering of individuals who offer general guidance to the Lab at the invitation of the Lab’s senior leadership. The Advisory Group meets quarterly to consult on the Lab’s activities, provide constructive criticism, and brainstorm about developments in chaplaincy and how the Lab can most effectively address them. They also help the Lab partner with and support chaplains in a range of settings. Advisory Group members serve for three-year terms.
