A chaplain is, traditionally, a cleric (such as a minister, priest, pastor, rabbi, purohit or imam), or a lay representative of a religious tradition, attached to a secular institution such as a hospital, prison, military unit, intelligence agency, embassy,  school, labor union, business, police department, fire department, university, sports club, or private chapel.

Chaplains seek to build a relationship of trust through compassionate presence and thereby offer help and support to a wide range of people.

The chaplain's role is supportive, serving as a counselor and guide to the spiritual needs of the staff and patients.