Charles McDonald is Moravain’s newest university chaplain. He started last summer and is the chaplain to the student body. Charles holds both a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, with a minor in Mathematics (2017), and a Master of Divinity (2021), from Moravian University and Moravian Theological Seminary. On a weekly basis, Charles supports all of Moravain’s faith-based clubs from club meetings and events to one-on-one spiritual or emotional support.

What does your position usually entail? What department do you work in? 

I work under the Office of Spirituality and Inclusion. I am responsible for being a support system for students, a confidential resource, and an advisor to faith-based clubs. I support these club meetings that occur early in the morning to later in the day and support students everywhere in between. Especially for clubs, I make it a point to physically be there for students, rather than just through email or text, even more so than required. My main function is to be a support system and or a confidential resource on campus because being part of the students’ support system allows them to hopefully become their authentic self, so when they leave here, they have those tools to thrive outside of this community.

What are some of the unique challenges that come with your position?

One of the biggest challenges was finding a good place to connect with students. However, I feel this challenge is slowly melting away with the new HUB, and things are just naturally falling into place, especially since I’ll have my own office for the first time. For the first three months, it was hard to establish myself due to being seemingly everywhere on campus. I didn’t need to learn campus because I had only left 4 years ago. 

What are your favorite aspects of working in your position?

It is just exciting to be back in Bethlehem. I like walking through campus appreciating the natural beauty of the trees on campus, seeing someone I know, having quick interactions, and taking a deep breath to realize how lucky I am to be here and that I get to work with such wonderful people. 

What made you decide to work at Moravian?

I wouldn’t be where I am today if it hadn’t been for my experience in the Office of Spirituality and my conclusion as a student at Moravian. When I was a student at Moravian, I was a brother of Delta Tau Delta, worked in the IT department, was the president of the German club, served as the Seminary student trustee, and did many other things. I would relish the opportunity to be able to return the favor to another student. This job was a natural fit for me, both because of my connection to Moravian and my desire to help young adults. I want to help fill the gap in religious/spiritual programming for young adults, and Moravian is a perfect place to do it. 

What’s an interesting fact about yourself that most people don’t know about you?

I can juggle, and I went to a boarding school in Maine, where I discovered Moravian University through connections I had from that school.

What do you do in your free time or hobbies? 

I enjoy walking, running, and biking. I like to read, especially on interfaith topics, watch horror movies, and play video games. I have several consoles, and I have built several PCs. I am trying to learn to play guitar, and I used to practice taekwondo.  

Are there any interesting projects or things you are working on, even outside of your career?

I am studying Spanish right now. I have studied German and Mandarin. Besides that, I am still working on learning to play guitar. 

Did you plan to work in higher education?

Not originally, but I was always open to returning to Moravian.  It goes back to my desire to give back to Moravian. I had thought that this job would open up. I would apply to it. I did not think it would come this early in my career, nor did I think I would get it if I applied. I am very humbled and blessed to have this job. It is a privilege to be here. 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I have an office in the new HUB. I got a 6-foot beanbag chair. If you want to come hang out, you’re welcome. I’m not just here. I’m not here to convert anybody to any faith. I am here to help people connect in meaningful ways, whether that is in a spiritual sense or in a secular sense.