Ministry Amidst Diversity: Exploring Hospitality in Ontario Catholic School Chaplaincy

The growing diversity of school populations in Ontario Catholic high schools, coupled with differences in vision between various partners in the educational system, impacts continuously on the ministry of chaplaincy. Through this qualitative research, Chaplaincy Leaders from the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario articulate for themselves the challenges they face and the important role of hospitality in their ministry. This thesis is deeply contextual. The research interest arises out of the researcher’s own experience as a Chaplaincy Leader. In accordance with the expectations of the Doctor of Ministry program at Toronto School of Theology, it begins by exposing the researcher’s personal context, followed by an investigation of the historical and contemporary realities of the Catholic school system in relation to wider Ontario culture. A theology of ministry that identifies two main thrusts to chaplaincy – the Pastoral and the Prophetic – provides the background for listening to the voices and stories of the participants. The qualitative research design relies primarily on the phenomenological thought of Emmanuel Levinas, emphasizing the face-to-face approach. Through their conversations the participants reveal their understanding of their ministry, their sources of inspiration, the place of hospitality within chaplaincy, and the challenges they face. The research suggests that now is the time for Catholic schools and the Church to shift the emphasis from teaching Catholicity to living Catholicity. How this can be done more effectively will require conversation and acts of imagination. The imperative of Catholic Social Teaching becomes evident, as does the importance of conversation and relationship across difference. The model and thoughts offered by these Chaplaincy Leaders suggests new directions for all partners in Catholic education. Doctor of Ministry (DMin