Chaplains On The Way

Chaplains On The Way is a Waltham nonprofit offering spiritual care and companionship to people experiencing homelessness, deep poverty, and mental health or substance use challenges. Its chaplains meet people wherever they are, on the street, in shelters, at soup kitchens or in the hospital, to listen and offer company. The organization is interfaith and non-denominational, sitting with people of any faith or none, and it also accompanies them as they navigate housing, employment, health care and hospice.

The work began in 2008 when Rev. Joan Murray, a United Church of Christ minister, started walking Waltham’s streets to meet unhoused residents, later training chaplain interns from local universities. In 2021, with many places closed by the pandemic, the group partnered with First Parish in Waltham to launch a breakfast program for when shelters close each morning. The program outlasted the pandemic and now runs year-round, alongside weekly practice groups.

What to Know

• It is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
• Executive Director Michael Jones and Director of Chaplaincy Rev. Marc Fredette lead the staff of chaplains, interns and volunteers.
• Supporters include local businesses, congregations, civic groups and officials such as Mayor Jeannette McCarthy.
• A video series hosted by Jones explores modern chaplaincy with guests including Waltham police outreach staff.