“Chaplaincy is a calling. It’s about honoring that calling and being fully present with those you serve, no matter their beliefs or backgrounds.”
Chaplain Jennifer Crouse’s path to becoming a chaplain has been filled with unexpected turns. Originally from Illinois, her first introduction to chaplaincy came through a fortuitous encounter with a book titled “Here If You Need Me.” This book, detailing a woman’s journey into chaplaincy, served as Jennifer’s first exposure to the role.
“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.”
Despite initially believing she had missed her chance, Jennifer’s late application to Pacific Health Ministry (PHM) was accepted. 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 navigating through COVID-19, strikes, and finally, the devastating fires that swept through the island.
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.”
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.”
