Chaplain Updates: August 2023

Sarah Hoogendorn

Sarah graduated from Vanderbilt Divinity School in July with a Doctorate of Ministry degree. Her project was titled: “Balancing the Therapeutic and the Theological: An Exploration in Providing Spiritual Care for Those Seeking Moral Healing and Self-Forgiveness” Sarah provides this summary of her thesis:

“I explore how a psychosocial approach to healing from moral injury is not enough. As spiritual care providers, we have unique insight into how moral injury can impact how a patient lives in relationship with themselves, with their communities, and with their spirituality. Because of this unique insight, we also have the opportunity to provide particular types of care that other disciplines cannot offer. Using the actions of King David and the movements of Psalm 51, I explore how chaplains can provide inclusive care to those seeking moral healing and self-forgiveness from a firm theological foundation.”

If you would like a copy of her thesis, please email [email protected] with your request.

Sarah Roelofs

Sarah resigned from her position with the Christian Reformed Church in North America at the end of March and accepted a new position as Director of Spiritual Care at the Fetzer Institute in Kalamazoo, MI. She writes:

"I look forward to working in the new organization with an expansive mission that includes an inclusive understanding of humanity and spiritual formation. The Fetzer vision is to reveal, inspire, and serve a more loving world. I'm thankful to all of you for your support, encouragement, and I will continue to pray for you all in your work. Blessings!"