As a chaplain, I lead chapel programs at TMI Episcopal, as well as teach some pretty amazing young people in the classroom. Working with students has been one of the most life-giving affirmations that I’ve experienced in my twenty-two years of ordained ministry. When I was in seminary, I thought about being a school chaplain, but never really believed I’d follow that path. I couldn’t have imagined going from the parish to chaplaincy, but for whatever reason, when my friend and seminary roommate called to ask if I would consider discerning a call to work at TMI (he serves as our president). I knew that God was calling me to something exciting. I couldn’t have possibly known how much I would love being a chaplain, and how much purpose I find in the work I do on a daily basis.
The work we do in Episcopal schools is some of the most vibrant ministry in the world and I don’t say that lightly. Reaching our students at critical moments in their lives, and telling the story of God’s love in our communities is fulfilling because of the impact I see in our student’s lives. Episcopal schools are uniquely suited for these times, and we get to be a voice of love for our students and families in ways that they might not hear otherwise. The foundation of God’s love on which we build our life together shows up in the way our students encounter the world and I couldn’t be more grateful to be a part of that. As I love to say to whoever will listen…it’s a great day to be a chaplain.
The Rev. Dr. Benjamin H. Nelson, III is Chaplain at TMI Episcopal (San Antonio, TX).