A chaplain’s calling is to live and integrate spiritual practices in their ministries. The importance of the spiritual well-being of chaplains, and the importance of spiritual practices to effective ministry is the focus of this research. The theoretical basis is formed by research in the social sciences linking spiritual practices and faith to mental health and the importance of wellness to daily ministry. The ministry background is a theory of spiritual formation and how this is integrated in chaplaincy practice. The theological basis of this study is the image of Jesus and the Vine found in John 15. The implementation of the research strategies included a pre- and post-quantitative study of spiritual well-being, and a qualitative study of chaplain’s experiences with spiritual practices. The qualitative research element included current chaplain practices, and focus on those practices that give meaning and purpose to their life and ministry. The post-test measured changes and differences the intervention involving spiritual practices of solitude, scripture, personal daily prayer, self examination, Sabbath practices, and journaling made to their religious, spiritual and existential well-being.
