By Kristen Thomason
“Be authentic. Be fully present, non-judgmental, and incredibly open.” These are words that inspire Rev. Inetta Reddell in life and in ministry. While helping her ailing father with end-of-life decisions, she saw how aligning healthcare with the wishes of the patient resulted in a better outcome. Open to God’s call to help others in similar situations do the same, Reddell left her law practice to become a chaplain. She was ordained and endorsed by the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship.
All that was 20 years ago. Since then, Reddell has served in various healthcare settings and is currently the chaplain at a retirement community in Rochester, Minnesota. She is also the acting president on the Executive Board of Directors for the Association of Professional Chaplains, and believes chaplaincy is a “noble calling that requires empathy, understanding, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others.”
In her ministry setting, Reddell offers a “listening ear and a compassionate presence to those who are navigating difficult circumstances or grappling with deep emotions.” For those struggling with illness and loss, she supports them as they work through their feelings of grief, anger and fear, helping them to achieve a sense of hope, peace and resilience.
Although her community holds predominantly Judeo-Christian beliefs, Reddell is broadening the spiritual resources available for all residents. “It is essential that our spiritual care services are inclusive and respectful of the diverse beliefs and practices present in our community.” She also works closely with healthcare providers, crafting holistic care plans to ensure that spiritual needs are met alongside physical ones. She adds, “This multidisciplinary approach allows us to address the diverse needs of individuals comprehensively, supporting their physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.”
For Reddell, one of the blessings of serving as a chaplain is “the chance to walk alongside people in their joys and sorrows, offering support and encouragement as they navigate life’s challenges.” As a woman of color in ministry, Reddell has faced her own challenges, including supporting those who have cultural biases or who object to women in leadership roles. “I have learned to approach each person with an open heart, acknowledging their perspectives while offering them the support they need.”
Caring for others in painful and difficult circumstances is emotionally draining— even for experienced chaplains. Lately, Reddell has discovered the “therapeutic power of music, fashion, dance and somatic practices in promoting mental health and self-care, which she has been a ‘revelation.’ Engaging in these creative pursuits has not only offered me personal expression and relief, but has also facilitated meaningful connections with others. By sharing my journey on social media, I have been able to inspire and support others, while fostering a sense of community and solidarity.”
Reddell’s creative social media posts are just one of the many ways she engages with her community outside of her role as a religious leader. She tends to the emotional well-being of each individual while also making sure residents feel a sense of community outside of religious services. Helping her in this endeavor is her service dog, Samson. Reddell describes Samson as “a smart German Shepherd who adores people and plays a crucial role in providing support and comfort to those in need.” She is in the process of training Samson to be a therapy dog as part of her community’s Caring Canine program, “a valuable service that residents deeply appreciate.”
The Network on Ministry in Specialized Settings designated the last week of October as Spiritual Care Week. It’s an opportunity for organizations like CBF to highlight the ministry performed by chaplains and pastoral counselors. This year’s theme is Spiritual Care: Chaplains Beyond Religious Roles. While chaplains like Reddell lead worship services, offer spiritual guidance, and conduct weddings and funerals, they also support their communities by mediating conflict, advocating for patients, helping families navigate medical systems, and facilitating understanding in matters of diversity and inclusion.
For Reddell, serving as a chaplain has been a source of personal growth and spiritual enrichment, transforming her “by deepening my faith, enhancing my capacity for empathy and compassion, and broadening my perspective on the diversity of human experience.” She encourages anyone considering a call to ministry to explore this path further and consider the profound difference they could make in the world through their service as a chaplain.
*The views expressed are Rev. Inetta Reddell’s own, and do not necessarily reflect those of her employer.