Lutheran Chaplaincy Service is a unique service agency providing comprehensive spiritual care services, primarily in hospitals and long-term care settings. We are one of only a few similar agencies in the country providing this kind of service, and the only one in Ohio.
With deep roots in the social ministry tradition of the Lutheran Church, LCS is an ecumenical organization that ministers in an interfaith context. Our trained, experienced chaplains come from a wide range of Christian denominations, and serve people in crisis regardless of their faith or religious affiliation, drawing on the spiritual resources and faith tradition of each individual.
LCS recognizes that people’s spirituality is a powerful force, giving value and purpose to their lives. Each day, LCS chaplains witness the miracle of people connecting to God in the midst of crisis.
What We Do
LCS employs professionally trained chaplains who serve in institutions that contract with us for spiritual care services. Our partner institutions are located throughout the northern half of Ohio and include hospitals, long-term care facilities, a facility for the developmentally disabled, and a juvenile detention center.
We also offer our expertise as a search service for healthcare institutions seeking a chaplain.
How We Work
When an institution contracts with Lutheran Chaplaincy Service for spiritual care services, LCS works with that institution to develop a profile and job description for the chaplain. We then conduct a nationwide search for chaplains who will be a good match for the institution’s culture and setting. The final candidates interview with staff from both the institution and LCS, and the hiring decision is made jointly.
The chaplains screened and hired by LCS have a minimum of four units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) and are eligible for board certification by the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC), National Association of Catholic Chaplains (NACC), or one of several other professional chaplain organizations. Many chaplains also have an endorsement from their denomination.
