The Role Of Chaplaincy In Lgbt Veteran Healthcare

For many LGBT veterans, meeting with a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) chaplain marks the first time they are able to openly discuss their sexual and gender identity in the context of their religious/spiritual beliefs. Here we provide an overview of VA chaplaincy services, giving voice to some of the spiritual and pastoral care needs of LGBT veterans, provide a case vignette of a sexual minority veteran, and draw attention to future challenges for VA chaplaincy.