^{By Rabbi Joseph Ozarowski, Rabbinic Counselor and Chaplain}

A former client recently shared, “I did not know anything about chaplaincy before my wife died, but then you were there for me, listened to me, journeyed with me and gave me resources to help me hold it together. Now, I am getting remarried! I was so fortunate to have found you and your chaplaincy program.”

While spiritual care, or chaplaincy, is an important factor in both physical and mental health care, our work is not well known in the Jewish community. There are several hundred Jewish chaplains in the US. They work in hospitals, long term care facilities, hospice programs, community chaplaincy and other settings.

We are not therapists, nor do we prescribe medication. But we do help people navigate illness, loss, suffering, hope, meaning, purpose and the challenges of everyday life. We do this through active listening, compassionate presence, helping to reframe feelings, connecting clients with other mental health professionals and offering resources as we accompany them through difficult times.

When a client asks, “Why is this happening to me?” we do not provide answers. Instead, we guide them in discovering their own answers, meaning and sources of support. In a world filled with conflicting information and divisive politics, we offer a calm, healing presence.

While all chaplains come from religious or spiritual traditions, Jewish chaplains bring the wisdom of Torah and Judaism to those in need. We may pray with our clients or offer guidance from Jewish texts. Drawing on the lessons of our people, faith and culture, we support Jewish community members through crises—large and small. Our presence fosters connection, helping transcend loneliness and estrangement.

The JCFS Chaplaincy program consists of compassionate, professional spiritual counselors who also conduct Jewish programming at facilities serving seniors and others. Our team includes Board Certified Chaplains (BCCs) who have completed 1600 hours of clinical training, 2000 hours of work experience and a rigorous certification process, with ongoing training to maintain certification.

We facilitate the bi-monthly Chicago/Midwest Jewish Chaplains Group, which includes over 50 local and regional Jewish chaplains. Topics we have addressed range from domestic abuse and Jewish advance directives to harm reduction in addiction treatment. Additionally, we host an annual “Yom Iyun” (Day of Learning) for chaplains in the region, featuring renowned speakers.

As the immediate Past President of Neshama: Association of Jewish Chaplains (NAJC), I and other local chaplains are involved in the upcoming NAJC National Conference, “One Spirit, Many Paths,” in Skokie from May 11-14. While designed for chaplains, anyone is welcome to attend.

Times like these can be difficult. The world can feel confusing, and the situation for our Jewish community may seem bleak. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, please know that you are not alone. If you would like to talk to a Jewish chaplain, reach out to Leah Shefsky or call 847.745.5404. We are here to listen, provide support and help you navigate life’s difficult moments.