Campus Ministry - Spiritual Leader (Catholic Chaplain)

As the second-largest independent Catholic university in New England, and one of the fastest-growing private doctoral institutions in the U.S., Sacred Heart University is a national leader in shaping higher education for the 21st century. SHU offers nearly 90 undergraduate, graduate, doctoral and certificate programs on its Fairfield, Conn., campus. Sacred Heart also has a campus in Dingle, Ireland, and offers online programs. More than 10,000 students attend the University’s nine colleges and schools: Arts & Sciences; Communication, Media & the Arts; Social Work; Computer Science & Engineering; Health Professions; the Isabelle Farrington College of Education & Human Development; the Jack Welch College of Business & Technology; the Dr. Susan L. Davis, R.N., & Richard J. Henley College of Nursing; and St. Vincent’s College. Sacred Heart stands out from other Catholic institutions as it was established and led by laity. The contemporary Catholic university is rooted in the rich Catholic intellectual tradition and the liberal arts, and at the same time cultivates students to be forward thinkers who enact change—in their own lives, professions and in their communities. The Princeton Review includes SHU in its Best 388 Colleges–2023 Edition, and Best Business Schools–2023 Edition. Sacred Heart is home to the award-winning, NPR-affiliated radio station, WSHU, a Division I athletics program and an impressive performing arts program that includes choir, band, dance and theatre. www.sacredheart.edu

Position Summary
In the spirit of Sacred Heart University’s mission and core values which recognize the dignity and worth of every human being, the Office of Mission Integration welcomes chaplains of various faith traditions on campus. Our mission is to accompany all students on their spiritual journey and to provide the opportunity to engage with an array of faith leaders. Moreover, as Sacred Heart is part of the Christian community, we look to help students recognize “the ray of truth which enlightens all humanity” (John 1:9).
Each interfaith chaplain’s primary responsibility is to accompany students of their particular tradition on campus. Additionally, each chaplain will serve as a symbol to SHU students that while we embrace the differences among our particular identities, we celebrate the profound unity of love and responsibility that holds us together.
Principal Duties & Responsibilities

• Spend three hours on campus per week (any day Mon-Fri) for 15 weeks, 45 hours per semester.
• Attend interfaith prayer services such as 9/11 remembrance, Thanksgiving Interfaith, Kristallnacht Commemoration, and student prayers.
• Meet and accompany students of your faith and tradition.
• Attend interfaith staff meetings with Campus Minister for Student Engagement in person or virtually.
• Attend monthly full Mission staff meetings in person, typically on a Monday from 1-3pm.
• Host a group of students from SHU during CURTIS Week for an interfaith prayer experience and dinner.
• Participate in interfaith events such as “Interfaith Amigos” where chaplains have an opportunity to share the riches of their tradition with SHU students and staff.
• Attend annual Mass on the Grass, typically taking place on last Sunday in August at 5pm.
• Share wisdom from your faith through student-led social media initiatives.
• Willingness to speak in Catholic Intellectual Tradition (CIT) seminars and other classes as requested

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, & Other Attributes

• Must be an ordained Catholic Priest in good standing.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Comfort with clergy and students of other faith traditions.
• Appreciation of Catholic theology and the vision of the Second Vatican Council.
• Experience in leading and working with young adults in Catholic faith tradition.

Unusual Working Conditions
May require additional time, and presence is welcome.

Sacred Heart University is a space that respects and embraces differences, recognizes the unique contributions that individuals can make, and creates a community that maximizes the potential of all faculty and staff. As an equal opportunity employer, we encourage applications from qualified candidates who reflect the wider world in which we live.