Alum Spotlight: Chaplaincy, Self-Care, and Service
My name is Kevin Todd, and I had the privilege of completing a Master of Divinity at CST. Today, I’m putting the skills I gained there to work as a reserve chaplain in the United States Navy.
The rigorous, pluralistic environment at CST was invaluable in preparing me for this role. I was able to study alongside fellow students from a wide range of spiritual paths—Agnostic, Muslim, Christian, and others. This diversity was the perfect training ground for ministry in a pluralistic environment like the Navy.
I also walked away with a profound respect for ancient texts. Thanks to the work of Professor Marvin Sweeney and Professor Jeffrey Kuan, I learned to understand the Hebrew Bible in a much richer and fuller way.
Beyond the academic preparation, CST taught me one of the most important lessons for service: self-care. I learned various spiritual modalities and the critical importance of taking care of ourselves before we aim to help others. I use this lesson constantly, even unofficially, by organizing occasional breakfasts for my fellow EMS providers. These informal gatherings serve as vital opportunities for us to heal spiritually from the trauma of the job.
Nothing can prepare you perfectly for life as a chaplain, but CST did a phenomenal job. I wish more people knew how much the school truly values diversity of thought and how deeply it has challenged and enriched the lives of its students. It was a great place to study.
To learn more about the Master of Divinity in Interfaith Chaplaincy program at CST, click here.