Contact: Kathy Smith M. A., 760-789-4700 ext. 115

RAMONA, Calif., Oct. 6, 2014 /Christian Newswire/ -- Crisis strikes everyone at one time or another; but chaplains make a difference. They help bridge the gap from crisis, to safety, to healing.

The International Training and Education Network (ITEN) announced they are accepting registrations for the class, "Introduction to Chaplaincy." The class will be held on October 25, 2014 at the Heart of God Church, located at 16935 Rancho Bernardo Rd. in San Diego, CA.

Subjects covered in this class are visitation of patients in the hospital, working with the judicial system and prison ministry, the chaplain's role in cases of abuse, the chaplain's role as a counselor, and how to conduct a funeral. The introductory class is the first of four classes required for certification as a chaplain. The student will also need to take the courses, Counseling in Chaplaincy, Chaplaincy and Family Care, Grief and Loss in Chaplaincy Ministry; all to be completed through the online program. Once the practicum is complete, the student will be eligible to apply for membership in "The American Chaplain Association." The first year of membership is free.

"Too often, hurting people are unable to get the assistance they so desperately need. Perhaps it is the widow who has just lost her husband, or a mother waiting outside the operating room while her son or daughter is being treated for life threatening injuries. It may be a child experiencing loss or serious illness, or the family who has just witnessed the arrest of their loved one for a serious crime. People in crisis need help. Certified chaplains can bridge the gap and offer the assistance needed to bring peace to a volatile environment.

"Help the hurting and become a certified chaplain." -- Stan DeKoven Ph.D. Founder and President ITEN

For more information on educational opportunities offered by the ITEN (International Training and Education Network) call (760) 789-4700 x 115, or email ksmith@vision.edu