Why, God? —is the top question being asked by people of all ages, especially from students.
Whenever something horrible happens that is out of our control; we look to God for answers.
Some faintly whisper; “why?” Others shake their fist at God. For those who are suffering silently, the question remains silent.
This is when spiritual care matters most.
Chaplains quickly recognize those who have gone quiet. The ones who withdraw are most at risk of losing hope and their zeal for life. Faith-based care brings clarity and an anchor for the soul. School Chaplains help the distraught regain their footing when their world is falling apart.
Campus violence and school shootings elicit an urgent outcry for prayer and spiritual support. Life and death moments require help that far exceeds secular methods alone.
Spiritual care is most requested when the unthinkable happens.
The presence of prayer and faith in the God of Peace is priceless. While chaplains are ready to answer an urgent call, they deliver the highest impact through continuous care—supporting communities before, during, and after challenges arise. School Chaplains are equipped to answer the toughest questions.
The “God! Why?” question demands immediate and ongoing attention. It is the toughest question to answer even for the most qualified. Experts struggle with it, but not because they don’t know the answer.. They struggle with how and when to deliver the answer.
Sensitivity with Truth
The hearts of those asking must be handled with extreme care. A crescendo of overwhelming emotions need to be released, thereby making room to receive understanding. Unchecked anger is another road hazard. Anger needs an immediate release valve, but intense anger that remains too long or mishandled can turn into a destructive pattern.
Yes, there is an urgency for an answer. However, during the initial stages of shock, anger and disbelief, the mind is in a state of high alert. The fight or flight mechanism releases a flurry of innate survival reactions. Later, comes the sorting out of the crisis.
Who is Available?
Who will be available to answer such a pressing question? The process of receiving an answer and the follow-up answers takes time. Having School Chaplains in place, provides a constant point of contact to help make sense of the senseless.
First Do No harm
Sometimes, the first thing to do is sit quietly with someone while they frantically attempt to sort out their thoughts and questions. Listen, really listen, to what is being said —and not said.
Doing so, identifies the points that are ready (and not ready) to be addressed. A revelation emerges of the most important thing to that person in that moment. Sometimes, a hug or a hand on the shoulder may be all that is needed. However, follow-up must be arranged and performed progressively at their pace. Ultimately, the question must be answered. Certified School Chaplains have training and sensitivity in this area.
Why does God allow tragedies to happen?
The root answer is; “Things happen because we all have been given free will. God gave humans the freedom to choose.”
God desires that people make decisions based on the true definition of love. He wants everyone to love truth, justice and to help each other live peaceful and safe lives. Yes, there is an absolute truth available for those who seek it. People make dangerous choices. God is not to blame for that. According to Proverbs 14:12 "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.”
The best question to ask is; Why are horrible choices being made?
How can evil thinking be prevented? Why do some make destructive decisions; while others make beautiful and life-giving decisions?
A tragic injustice touches everyone, and causes people to recognize that things have gone too far. Morals and ethics have declined. Until we truly understand why, expect accountability and learn how to address spiritual problems, the solutions remain delayed. Meanwhile, anger rages with the need to blame somebody, but it is not God’s fault.
Why?
If unanswered, our very foundation is missing. Without the why, we don’t know how to execute prevention. Without knowing why, how can we heal?
Many don’t admit it, but deep down, humans know that they need something bigger than themselves. Their is a yearning to believe in something powerful. There is a primal need to trust in something that is truly trustworthy. If we are going to question God, shouldn’t be willing to listen to his answer?
Therefore, let’s ask ourselves; “What am I doing to stop destruction? Why do I allow devastation? Why allow our faith to be stolen? Why allow joy to be stolen by doubt and fear?”
An awakening is emerging as our focus shifts away from ourselves to the safety and needs of others. God wants us to experience the joy of participation. Together, changes can be made!
Readily available school chaplains provide help processing the uncertainties that surround us in every day life. Let’s give the students and staff a constant point of contact to help them feel peaceful as they grow.
NSCA’s mission is to provide a constant ministry of presence at all Schools. Chaplains who are on-site every day are in position to act immediately. They are trained in prevention and crisis management.
Chaplains are a unique addition to the Threat Assessment Team. NSCA Certification includes the completion of "Active Shooter" and "Stop-The-Bleed" courses.
Threat Assessment Teams received attention surrounding the 2007 mass shooting at VA Tech. They were adapted from the U.S. Secret Service . Specifically The State of Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management in K–12 Public Schools, (2025 Panel) Studies show that most incidents are preventable.
Of course chaplains cannot prevent every crisis, but they provide an additional layer of protection and insight to the team. Chaplains have their finger on the pulse of the school atmosphere. Changes in behavior are often noticed long before escalation of a violent event.
What Can You Do?
Support National School Chaplain Association www.nsca.global and help place chaplains in all schools across America. Also consider sponsoring or becoming a school chaplain. The first intro class is free and explains the role and the registration requirements. Explore it today and pray about becoming an NSCA Certified School Chaplain through the NSCA Academy
