Edmonton’s unique city chaplain position was called into question in September over the issue of multiculturalism, but was affirmed by city council and the city’s administration.
The question came from a concerned citizen who had read a report from chaplain (and Presbyterian minister) John Dowds that was written to council’s executive committee explaining the services Dowds provides. Such reports are made public, and, in turn, the public has the right to speak when they are presented.
As reported in the Edmonton Journal, citizen Charlie Richmond asked council if, “in our multicultural, pluralistic society there remains a question of whether any particular faith ought to be entrenched.” Richmond wanted volunteers of various faiths to do the job instead.
Dowds said the question was a result of lack of information and understanding regarding exactly what Dowds does, which includes grief and trauma counseling to firefighters and paramedics, stress management, writing condolence cards, and spiritual counseling—though he refers to other faith representatives if needed.
The term ‘chaplain’ was also questionned, wondering if the word itself ostracized non-Christians. “Our regular council meetings always begin with prayer,” Dowds told the Record, “and just a week before this happened, we had a Muslim chaplain lead prayer. That is the term he uses. It may have its history in Christianity, but ‘chaplain’ has become a generic term.”
Dowds has been in the position since 2006, though the role has existed for 28 years. He is open about his Presbyterian heritage, but his office is free of religious symbols, and his dress is subdued.
“It’s a reminder to me and to my office that there is always the opportunity for education and for a better understanding of my role,” he said. “We have to affirm the ecumenical and interfaith aspect. More of that needs to get out.”
To read more about John Dowds and Presbyterian chaplains, check out this January 2009 article.
