We are thrilled to welcome you to our Q&A series, where we will be shining a spotlight on our extraordinary chaplains at Cassia. Through their unwavering support and compassionate presence, our chaplains provide comfort and guidance to our residents, their families and our staff.
In this installment, we are honored to feature Rev. Chuck Tabor, Chaplain at Trinity Springs in Oxford, Florida. Join us as we dive into Rev. Chuck’s approach to chaplaincy and explore the vital importance of spiritual care in our communities.
Q: How long have you been in this role?
A: “Five years
Q: What does a typical day look like for you as a chaplain?
A: I write and distribute a daily devotional within the facility, participate in staff meeting and StandUp, spend time with residents, lead a sing-along with residents in memory care, and SBWA (Serve By Walking Around) – perhaps one of the more important parts of my ministry here.
Q: Share a memorable experience you had with a resident or their family that highlights the importance of spiritual life care.
A: From the beginning of our time here, we have approached the passing of residents with a sense of honor. They come into this facility on move-in day with a celebration. We have a short Walk of Honor where we celebrate their life and allow them to leave the facility with honor. We have received very positive and grateful responses from family members regarding this brief service.
Q: Share examples of how spiritual life care has brought comfort or peace to residents or staff members during challenging times.
A: Oftentimes, residents stop me and want to share issues they are having. My first response with them is to pause and pray. Without exception, no matter where they are spiritually, they express gratitude and appreciation for my interest and my prayers.
Q: Describe a time when you felt deeply moved by an interaction with a resident or their family.
A: We have offered to families of residents who pass away the opportunity to use our community for a “Celebration of Life” service after the death of a resident. For the most part, each one of these services moves ME in a special way, whether the individual had a relationship with Jesus or not, for no other reason than it presents the opportunity to clearly explain the message of the Gospel.
Q: Have you seen anyone begin their spiritual journey or use a spiritual gift to encourage and bless their neighbors? Describe that experience.
A: Just last week, a resident asked to speak with me. He wanted to know how to begin a true relationship with Jesus. It was my privilege to help him in that endeavor.
Q: What do you find most rewarding about your role as a chaplain? What aspect of your job brings you the most joy or fulfillment?
A: Bringing joy and hope into the lives of people who, for the most part, realize that Trinity Springs is their last stop.
I have ministered in many church situations throughout my 46+ years of ministry, but these last 5+ years have for me been the most joyful and the most fruitful years in ministry (from my point of view). I look forward to continuing this ministry as long as I am physically and mentally able to do so.
Q: What is your prayer for the residents you serve?
A: I pray:
- that they would come to faith in Christ.
- that those who know Christ would grow in Him
- that they would see these last years of life as winding-up years and not as winding-down years.
- that they would rejoice in the Lord every day!”
Thank you, Rev. Chuck, for everything you have done for our residents, their families and our staff at Trinity Springs!