Whilst various faith communities engage in chaplaincy services, it is not promoted as part of mission of many Christian churches, and some other faiths appear to take an ad-hoc approach, despite the robusity and prevalence of the school chaplains project.
Chaplaincy has a long history, possibly beginning with St Martin de Tours. It is known for pastoral service to special communities and institutions. Nomenclature and theology underlying chaplaincy services changes to serve the needs of the times.
Chaplaincy in Australia commenced with the arrival of the First Fleet; Rev. Richard Johnson was appointed Chaplain. Since those days of 1786, chaplaincy has expanded to provide spiritual works and comfort to peoples in a variety of service environments and places where people are resident for extended periods.
A Healthy society needs healthy religion. However, in order for health to exist, we need to be in a dialogue with one another, that we may understand what needs to be addressed. At the 2019 FECCA Conference in Hobart, Emeritus Professor Des Cahill, Chair, Religions for Peace Australia addressed the need to consider the white supremacist movement, the case for climate change and religious support, the need for quality religious leadership (particularly for newly arrived religious leaders in Australia) and chaplaincy and spiritual care for a multicultural Australia.
Multifaith Chaplaincy website has several purposes. It aims to undertake research into current chaplaincy practices, training and certification across a range of chaplaincy activities. It will also supply the results of research, and supply links to excellence in chaplaincy practice, both in Australia and overseas.