Role of the Chaplain
The Chaplain is the administrative officer of the University responsible to the Provost for the oversight and coordination of religious activities on the campus. The Chaplain supports the academic mission of the University by facilitating and encouraging initiatives concerned with the moral, ethical, and spiritual dimensions of university life. These efforts include providing fora for the presentation of theological perspectives which address issues that impact our common life together as members of an intellectual community.
The Chaplain is an advocate for responsible religious faith and practice in a secular academic institution. As such the Chaplain's Office seeks to maintain and create opportunities for the consideration of the dynamic intersection of religion and intellectual life, and the vital connections between the University and the larger society in which it is situated, beginning with the neighbor institutions and groups in West Philadelphia.
In addition, the Chaplain is a pastor to the students, faculty and staff and is available for counseling and other pastoral requests for guidance and support. The loss of a loved one or similar traumatic and troubling events may occasion a need to seek the services of the Chaplain, who is an ordained clergy person.
Penn's urban character and diversity of peoples appropriately require the Chaplain to be a leader in interfaith conversations and dialogues, and to help foster and promote a university environment free of religious, racial, and ethnic bigotry. As convener of the Penn Religious Communities Council the Chaplain works closely with leaders and communities from a variety of faiths and traditions who are committed to serving the religious and spiritual needs of the university community.
The Chaplain's ceremonial duties are primarily defined by University rituals of renewal such as opening convocations and the baccalaureate service, for which the Chaplain has major responsibility. In all of these ceremonies the Chaplain's Office works closely with the Office of the Secretary as well as other university offices and officers.