“Chaplaincy is a calling. It’s about honoring that calling and being fully present with those you serve, no matter their beliefs or backgrounds.”
Rev. Jennifer Crouse’s path to becoming a chaplain has been filled with unexpected turns. From a professional basketball career to her current role as a chaplain, Jennifer’s path has been diverse and inspiring.
During her ten-year professional basketball career, she traveled extensively, playing in Spain, Australia, Greece, and Germany. Originally from Illinois, Jennifer’s introduction to chaplaincy came through a chance encounter with the book titled “Here If You Need Me.” This book, which chronicles a woman’s journey into chaplaincy, sparked Jennifer’s interest in the role and set her on a new path.
“I didn’t even know what a chaplain was,” Jennifer says with a chuckle. The book, discovered on a church’s free table, ignited a curiosity that eventually led her to pursue chaplaincy full-time in 2015. “It suddenly felt like all the experiences and skills I had gathered over the years had found a purpose.”
After finishing seminary, Jennifer faced uncertainty about her career direction. Exploring different Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) programs, a significant discussion with her mentor reshaped her perspective. “He reminded me of my requirement to be near the water—a non-negotiable for my next move.” The alternative residency lacked this vital element, prompting Jennifer to reconsider. “It wasn’t just about location; it was about finding the right fit.”
After finishing seminary, Jennifer faced uncertainty about her career direction. Exploring different Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) programs, a significant discussion with her mentor reshaped her perspective. “He reminded me of my requirement to be near the water—a non-negotiable for my next move.” The alternative residency lacked this vital element, prompting Jennifer to reconsider. “It wasn’t just about location; it was about finding the right fit.”
Despite initially believing she had missed her chance, Jennifer’s late application to Pacific Health Ministry (PHM) was accepted and was assigned as a CPE resident at the Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women and Children. Prior to joining PHM, Jennifer had gained foundational experience in CPE during her academic studies. Completing a unit at the South Carolina Department of Mental Health as part of her degree requirements provided her valuable insights into the practical and educational aspects of chaplaincy. These early experiences equipped her with the necessary skills and perspectives that she now integrates into her role at Maui Memorial Medical Center.
Jennifer’s position as a chaplain extends far beyond spiritual counsel; it’s about being present in the most profound sense, especially during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic and the Maui fires. “There are no words to describe it,” she admits, recalling the challenges of relocating to Maui at the height of the pandemic, undergoing lengthy mandatory isolation, working in Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) throughout her first year, strikes, and finally, the devastating fires that swept through the island. Actively involved in the American Red Cross’s Disaster Spiritual Care, Jennifer has never shied away from adversity. Instead, she has grown more effective, adapting to each new challenge as it emerged.
In the aftermath of the fires, there was a heightened emphasis on caring for hospital staff. Jennifer and her team expanded their outreach beyond conventional boundaries, providing support at Kaiser clinics and ensuring every staff member felt supported. “It’s about showing up, whether inside the hospital walls or out in the community,” she explains. “Our presence alone can make a significant difference.”
Amidst the relentless care for others, Jennifer acknowledges the importance of self-care, a practice she continues to refine as she navigates her relatively new career. “Self-care is a work in progress,” she admits. “It’s about giving myself grace and embracing activities like swimming in the ocean that replenish my spirit.”
Jennifer recently assumed the voluntary role of State Representative for the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC). In this position, she promotes the APC by recruiting, retaining, and supporting members in her state, advocates for the chaplaincy profession, assists local chaplains with Board Certified Chaplain (BCC) certification requirements, coordinates local meetings and educational opportunities, and reports to the Chair of the Membership Committee and the APC Board of Directors. This role will last for two terms.
As Jennifer continues to grow in her chaplaincy, she offers advice to those considering this path: “Chaplaincy is a calling. It’s about honoring that calling and being fully present with those you serve, no matter their beliefs or backgrounds.”
To learn more about Rev. Jennifer’s journey to moving to Maui and becoming a chaplain during the pandemic, please read her previous interview here.
