North East Islamic Community Center Hosts 3rd Annual Chaplain Retreat and In-Service Training Program
Two-day program brings together chaplain endorsers and participants for professional development, pastoral care, and spiritual growth.
The North East Islamic Community Center (NEICC) held its 3rd Annual Chaplain Retreat and In-Service Training Program on October 10–11, 2026, at Respect Graduate School in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The two-day program brought together presenters and participants for professional learning, meaningful discussion, and reflection on the challenges and responsibilities of chaplaincy in today’s complex world.
The program was conducted in a hybrid format, with selected presentations available virtually, allowing participants to engage both in person and online.
Saturday: Presentations, Learning, and Dialogue
Saturday, October 10, featured a full schedule of presentations addressing pastoral care, leadership, emotional well-being, chaplaincy in higher education, and the importance of supporting individuals and communities experiencing trauma and hardship.
The day began at 8:30 a.m. with opening remarks and a welcome reception with coffee and tea. At 9:00 a.m., Dr. Zubair Yousif, Imam and Supervisor at the Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBOP), delivered the opening presentation.
The morning sessions explored the distinction between presence and performance in chaplaincy. Chaplain Daniel Davila presented “Presence Over Performance: Seek to Empower, Not to Fix or Save,” followed by “Presence vs. Performance,” presented by Chaplain Rachel Ciupek-Reed and Dr. Ron Cockroft.
These sessions encouraged reflection on how chaplains can offer meaningful support by being present, listening carefully, and empowering those they serve rather than attempting to solve every problem for them.
Later in the morning, Chaplain Neshet Bursawi presented “Muslim College Chaplaincy in a Fractured World: Solutions for the Next Generation,” addressing the role of Muslim chaplaincy in responding to the needs of younger generations in an increasingly divided society.
Following lunch and prayer, the afternoon sessions focused on emotional challenges, trauma, and moral injury.
Dr. Ron Cockroft, CPSP Instructor and Diplomat, presented “Understanding the Anger Syndrome.” Dr. Cockroft and Chaplain Rachel Ciupek-Reed then led “Trauma-Informed Pastoral Care,” highlighting the importance of understanding trauma and responding to individuals with care and sensitivity.
The final scheduled presentation was “Moral Injury in a Fractured World: A Glance from a Military Perspective,” delivered virtually by Chaplain Fatih Ozcan. The session examined moral injury through a military perspective and its relevance to pastoral support in difficult circumstances.
Each presentation included a dedicated question-and-answer period, giving participants opportunities to engage with the presenters, exchange perspectives, and deepen their understanding of the topics.
Sunday: Retreat, Reflection, and Community Building
On Sunday, October 11, participants gathered for the retreat portion of the program. The retreat complemented Saturday’s presentations by providing time for reflection, connection, and renewed focus on the personal and professional responsibilities of chaplaincy.
The two-day gathering emphasized the importance of continued learning, spiritual resilience, compassionate service, and building stronger relationships among those dedicated to supporting individuals and communities.
Investing in the Future of Chaplaincy
The NEICC Annual Chaplain Retreat and In-Service Training Program reflects the Center’s commitment to professional development, collaboration, and the continued growth of chaplaincy services.
By bringing together experienced presenters and participants to explore practical and challenging issues, the program provided an opportunity to strengthen knowledge, share experiences, and consider effective approaches to pastoral care in diverse settings.
The North East Islamic Community Center remains committed to supporting chaplains and strengthening the communities they serve through education, engagement, and meaningful collaboration.
Event Details
Event: 3rd Annual Chaplain Retreat and In-Service Training Program
Dates: October 10–11, 2026
Location: Respect Graduate School, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Organizer: North East Islamic Community Center (NEICC)
Format: In-person and virtual presentations on Saturday; retreat on Sunday
