About

About

The National Association of Healthcare Chaplains – The NAHC – is the professional association for chaplains ministering in healthcare facilities throughout Ireland. It is the network of support for chaplains – ordained and lay – providers of sacramental, spiritual, psychological and emotional care to patients, relatives and staff.

Established in 1981, the NAHC was founded by Catholic ordained chaplains to be a system of support and a means of offering encouragement and community in diverse ministry. Since its inception many members of the laity too have answered their baptismal call to witness to the ongoing mission of Christ. Slowly, sacramental care and pastoral care coalesced to form an evolving model of holistic chaplaincy where followers of Christ – ordained & lay, male & female; and from other Christian communions – work together, inclusively and equitably to respond to the spiritual and emotional pain brought on by suffering.

The NAHC is the forum for the exchange of ideas and information relating to healthcare chaplaincy. It promotes ongoing professional development, reflective practice and the deepening of personal faith and spirituality.