Retired Chaplains' Writing Project

Abstract

Vincent Van Gogh said, “I dream my painting, and then I paint my dream.” This installment of the Retired Chaplains' Writing Project presents reflections by three former presidents, representing the College of Chaplains and the Association of Mental Health Clergy, organizations which merged in 1998 to form the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC). These men have spent their careers dreaming dreams. Then they have gone ahead and symbolically picked up their brushes and turned those dreams into beautiful murals. These expansive panoramas portray the profession of chaplaincy on the move, constantly evolving. No still life here. The insights of these retired leaders encourage us to explore anew the meaning of our roots and from whence comes our authority.They challenge us to consider the importance of meaningful change—rather than change for its own sake—and to celebrate the multitude of gifts that come to us as a result of collegiality, diversity and inclusiveness. The reflections of these retirees com...