What is a Chaplain?
A guide to one of the most misunderstood roles in our community.
Imagine receiving news that someone you love has died unexpectedly.
In the hours that follow, you may be overwhelmed, shocked, confused, numb, angry, or unable to think clearly. A chaplain may stay with you and help you navigate those difficult and tumultuous next few hours, one step at a time.
A chaplain is someone who shows up to be there for you on what may be the worst day of your life.
The role of a chaplain can mean different things in different settings, but in our case, you do not need to be religious to be a chaplain. You also do not need to be religious to receive support from a chaplain. Some of our chaplains come from religious backgrounds, and many do not. Sonoma County Chaplains support people of all faiths, spiritual traditions, cultures, identities, and worldviews—including those with no religious beliefs at all. All of our chaplains are equipped to provide spiritual care if it is requested.
Being There
Sonoma County Chaplains are requested by public safety agencies such as law enforcement, fire, or EMS to be a calm, compassionate presence during crisis, tragedy, grief, trauma, uncertainty, and unexpected loss.
Are Chaplains Religious?
A calm, compassionate presence in moments that can feel overwhelming.
Someone who will meet you where you are, without judgment or expectation.
Someone who can listen, sit beside you, help you understand what comes next, and offer practical support when it’s hard to think clearly.
Someone who will honor your beliefs, values, culture, choices, and wishes.
Someone who can stay with you in a moment that cannot be fixed.
What a Chaplain is:
What a Chaplain is NOT:
We are not here to persuade you to do, feel, or believe anything.
We are not part of a legal process.

We do not have a political agenda.

We are not law enforcement.
Our role is simple: to provide care, support, and presence during difficult moments and to leave things a little better than we found them.
Chaplains also support first responders. Law enforcement officers, firefighters, dispatchers, EMTs, paramedics, and other public safety professionals regularly encounter trauma, tragedy, suffering, and loss. Chaplains also provide confidential emotional and spiritual support to the people who serve our community.
Our chaplains also prioritize support for first responders.
Being a chaplain is not easy. It is not for everyone. But it might be for you. Learn more about how to join our team.