I have always been a massive fan of superhero films. There is something so captivating about watching the various powers be used for good; the suspense that the music brings as you await to find out what obstacles are being faced, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with the storyline: love, loss, resurrection, return, and the entirety of Joseph Campbell’s hero’s journey living out before your eyes!
As Chaplains, we are very much superheroes. That is one of the many reasons that I love the work that we get to do. We get to journey with our communities during times of joy and sorrow. We draw attention to where resurrection occurs in our ordinary world, and where justice is being sought. We encourage everyone to embrace their full identities; we celebrate, we reflect, and we help students (and our entire communities) identify their own superpowers and use them in this world for good!
At Oregon Episcopal School, the Office of Chaplaincy is one-third of what we like to call our “Justice League.” Together, with the Offices of Equity & Inclusion and Community Engagement, we partner to live out our Episcopal identity—meaning that we call our entire community to use their power for good in the world, working for justice, and ensuring that the dignity of every human being is respected and that we commit ourselves to safeguarding all of creation. Like every true superhero, we realize that we cannot work alone, and that the impact is greater when we all show up, bringing our true and complete selves, and work together.
In the world we currently find ourselves in, many are hungering for justice (and are literally in hunger with an increasing amount of food insecurity), looking to be seen and able to live safely as their fully authentic selves. Where polarization seems to have become a societal norm, I have found myself in many moments in need of a superhero. All of this has left me feeling exhausted. But recently, when taking a step back to look at the work that occurs daily through the lives that grace the campus at OES, and being a witness to the stories told by our various Episcopal schools around the world, I can see that heroes are at work!
The superhero capes are being worn by our pre-k, elementary, middle, and upper school students, and by all faculty, staff, and families who journey with them. This brings me joy, encouragement, and so much hope—the work that we do as chaplains and as Episcopal schools is needed now more than ever. So, thank you for doing the work of making a difference in this world! Continue to embrace your superpowers, knowing that you are not alone and that Episcopal schools and chaplains have “accepted the mission” and are working alongside you.
The Rev. Christopher M. Decatur is Head Chaplain at Oregon Episcopal School.