Hang on..

A humanist chaplain is questioned on the basis of oxymoron. Ok. I can see an interesting debate there. But the term atheist seems to have crept in. Presumably on the basis that an assertion such as humanist is the same as a lack of assertion such as atheist on what basis? They both lack superstition?

The multi faith chaplaincy service at hospitals here in The UK also includes no faith. Someone to speak with, unload and receive comfort transcends belief in any flavour of faith. I've just joined a group set up to oversee certain improvement to local health care and invited someone from the chaplaincy team to join it. I somewhat doubt they feel their knowledge of either Bible or q'ran reflects their usefulness to our work. But their empathy and constant contact with patients in a non subjective or clinical decision making role is gold dust.