Working as A Chaplain
I serve, along with Rabbi Linda Seidman, as a Community Chaplain in the Orange County Jails. We also serve as chaplains for hospice patients, senior residences, and at a wide variety of special events.
In this work I serve Jews, and non-Jews, individuals who come from the widest possible range of beliefs and backgrounds.
Our approach is marked by several characteristics.
We offer service to all who genuinely seek support .
The way we teach, counsel and provide religious support is tailored to match the individual ‘s specific needs. Taking a rational approach-we respond to the religious needs of the individual while integrating the realities of jail conditions, mental health, substance abuse, and all other challenges that an individual faces during incarceration, or other periods of stress.
If you know someone who is in the Orange County Jails, or needs help in hospice, please contact me.
Prayer
For some people, prayer is about connecting with and influencing a divine being. Many people in the 21st century reject this idea of prayer. Many others do not believe in a divine being that acts in response to prayer. Should they pray? The answer is yes. There are many purposes of prayer, and ways to pray, which are consistent with a rational, scientific concept of God. Even you don’t believe that God answers prayer, I recommend prayer for all of the following reasons.
Community Building
Saying the words together reinforces community.
Remembering and linking with Tradition
Even if we don’t believe the literal meaning of the words, we can recall, with reverence, the things that our ancestors recited.
Analyzing our thoughts and improving our attitudes
Prayer is a means of focusing our thoughts and reminding ourselves to listen to our consciences and be the best that we can be.
Supporting our friends, family, and community
Some who come to pray are seeking the help of their community in a time of need. We can offer that by our presence and involvement.
Prayers of thanksgiving
Help us stay mindful-maintaining gratitude for our blessings.
Petitionary Prayer
Can often be valuable when it speaks to the higher self within us, and influences our behavior.
Meditation
Some kinds of prayer can produce an effect of spirituality, a different awareness of the world.
I welcome the opportunity to pray with you.
For all of us prayer has have effects on how we feel about ourselves, how we shape our community, and how we connect with our traditions. All of these should be studied and honored.