Position: Camp Chaplain
Position Overview: The Camp Chaplain provides a ministry of presence, offering spiritual, emotional, and pastoral support to campers and staff. Through meaningful conversations, intentional relationships, and guidance during camp activities, the Chaplain creates a safe and inclusive space for all. The role also includes leading reflective sessions, responding to the spiritual needs of the camp community, and contributing to the overall well-being of the camp.
A Ministry of Presence Includes:
- Being present in conversations
- Building and fostering relationships
- Taking time for one-on-one interactions
- Leading reflective or spiritual sessions
Reporting and Relationships: The Camp Chaplain works closely with the camp staff and reports directly to the Camp Director.
Expected Pay and Benefits:
- Daily Rate: $295.00
- Room and board included (valued at $69.40/week)
- Travel support to camp at the beginning and end of the session
- Position covers 6 days per week. 1 or 2 week opportunities exist.
Key Responsibilities (include but are not limited to the following):
- Collaborate with the Camp Director to develop workshops or sessions that address the needs of the campers.
- Partner with the Camp Director and staff to intentionally create a safe and inclusive space for all.
- Strive to meet the spiritual needs of campers and staff in a non-denominational, inclusive manner.
- Participate in celebratory and reflective events, such as morning gatherings, mealtime graces, and prayers for safety.
- Serve on the Critical Incident Management Team to support during emergencies or crises.
- Provide confidential counseling while adhering to mandatory reporting laws for safety concerns.
- Be available on a 24/7 basis for emergency situations and regularly accessible for conversations and support.
- Maintain high visibility around camp, wearing informal and approachable identifiers such as a T-shirt or ID button labeled “Chaplain.”
Core Expectations:
- Support the spiritual needs of campers and staff by offering guidance, prayers, and a listening ear.
- Respect and incorporate diverse religious traditions when appropriate.
- Facilitate peaceful and respectful dialogue on sensitive topics.
- Ensure confidentiality in all communications, except in situations that require mandatory reporting.
Qualifications:
- Professional Standing: Member in good standing with the Order of Ministry (ordained, diaconal, etc.) in their denomination, with at least two years of ministry experience.
- Preferred Training: Clinical Pastoral Education or specific training in pastoral/spiritual counseling.
- Counseling Expertise: Experience addressing issues related to sexual abuse, harassment, discrimination, violence, and bullying.
- Knowledge Base: Strong understanding of issues related to sexual orientation and gender identity, especially as they relate to spiritual wellness.
- Personal Attributes: Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to provide balanced and respectful guidance.
About Rainbow Camp®:
Rainbow Camp® provides a safe, empowering, and fun place, in nature, where 2SLGBTQ+ and allied youth can explore their gender identities, freely express themselves, and form new friendships in a supportive and caring environment.
Our Core Values:
- Inclusivity: Make every camper feel welcomed, seen, and validated, respectful of their gender identity or sexual orientation. We strive to create an environment where campers feel secure and supported to be themselves. (Our staff complement are role models of this value.)
- Diversity: We respect and celebrate the full spectrum of identities within the 2SLGBTQ+ community and allies as they emerge and evolve.
- Joy: We believe that summer camp should be a fun and memorable experience for all. We provide activities and opportunities for campers to explore their interests and build new skills.
- Self Expression: We encourage self-discovery and growth of authentic selves, and the confidence and tools to express themselves, at camp and once they return home.
- Community: We cultivate an accepting, supportive community where campers can find acceptance and form new and lifelong friendships. Supporting campers by giving them the tools to be more engaged in their home communities.
- Inspiration: We aim to inspire campers to be confident in who they are, and speak up for themselves in their families and communities. We also want to inspire our campers to make positive change in the world around them when they are ready to.
- Education: Providing educational programming with measurable learning objectives, that foster understanding and acceptance of the 2SLGBTQ+ community is core to our purpose. We believe that the educational approach is key to breaking down barriers and creating a more inclusive society.
To Apply: Send letter of interest to hr@welcomefriend.ca
Click here for Rainbow Camp® Chaplain Description PDF