Moral development of individuals, teams, and organizations

Abstract

This chapter highlights an important aspect of humanist chaplaincy, i.e., the moral work that is a key distinguishing part of the profession. The moral dimension in chaplaincy work is explained by using the work of the Dutch humanist chaplain Elly Hoogeveen, and the theories underlying the problematizing of moral tensions and suffering. Then, four forms of moral work conducted by chaplains are discussed: creating moral sensitivity through education, normative-professional reflection, organizational presence, and support in moral recovery. These are not exhaustive and also not exclusive to each other, but together they show the complexity and multilayered nature of moral work and the competencies chaplains need to conduct this work.