Chaplaincy is a ministry of service to others. Amongst other places, chaplains work within hospitals, prisons, aged care facilities, schools, armed services, and emergency services. The Adelaide Archdiocese in its mission to care for Catholics across all areas of life, provide and support chaplains within the metropolitan public hospital system and corrections facilities. The chaplains are trained in ministry and maintain their skills with regular professional development. Regular Pastoral Supervision and Spiritual Direction assist the chaplains in their ministry and supports their self-care.

The role of a chaplain is multi-faceted. A chaplain:

• is present to those whom they visit
• listens attentively
• reflects with the person on their situation
• is non-judgmental
• can provide spiritual readings and religious items as requested
• can pray with the person and their family/ significant others when requested
• can offer the Eucharist
• can arrange for the celebration of the Sacraments as required.