Chaplain Spotlight: Brad Baird’s Journey to Professional Chaplaincy

Brad Baird

ECS Lead Chaplain Manager

Brad Baird’s journey to professional chaplaincy isn’t unheard of: he trained at the ECS Spiritual Care & Education Center—then he joined the ECS Chaplain Team. Today, Brad is the Lead Chaplain Manager for ECS and guides the spiritual care team at Timpanogos Regional Hospital in Orem, Utah.

Brad says he was first introduced to chaplaincy at a chance meeting with a Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Resident. “I felt in my bones that I should become a chaplain, though I had no idea what the chaplaincy journey had in store for me.”

Two years later, Brad followed his instincts and was hooked. He completed his first CPE Unit at the Center, in the spring of 2020—at the beginning of the pandemic. Then he completely upended his previous career and committed to a full-time year-long residency. 

“CPE was transformative! I learned a great deal about the art of chaplaincy and also explored myself deeply, discovering and cultivating important aspects of my humanity.” -Chaplain Brad

Brad joined ECS after residency as a Staff Chaplain at St. Mark’s Hospital. He was Chaplain Lead at Lakeview Hospital for two years and helped initiate ECS’ chaplaincy services at Lone Peak Hospital. For the last 15 months, Brad has focused on strengthening chaplaincy at Timpanogos Regional Hospital - and is a gifted chaplain role model and mentor to CPE students.

“Working with the CPE students has been a wonderful experience. I cherish each one for their own compassion and abilities, and also because they develop into wonderful chaplains!” - Chaplain Brad

During this busy and transformative time, Brad is nearing completion of a Master of Divinity degree through Central Seminary’s online program. He has already completed the program’s Chaplaincy Certificate and Peace and Justice program. 

“At the outset, I thought chaplaincy might be volunteer work. I never imagined any of what’s happened. The last six years have been remarkable.” - Chaplain Brad

Brad says his journey is just beginning. His future includes becoming a Board Certified Chaplain and possibly continuing his educational goals with a Doctor of Ministry degree.

Brad also maintains an active home life. He has been married to his wife, Heidi, for thirty-two years and has two adult children. He is active in his faith and currently serves not only as an endorsed chaplain for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but also at My Hometown Provo, a non-profit community development organization. In his spare time, he amuses himself writing prose poetry, music, and making art videos.

A warm note of thanks to Brad for his unwavering commitment to professional spiritual care and to the ECS mission and values.