A Conversation with Independent Sports Chaplain and PR Director, Jennifer Valentine-Miller
Everyone enjoys meeting people face to face from time to time, so the idea of an independent chaplaincy ministry operating primarily online may seem unusual. However, Jennifer Valentine-Miller, with many years of volunteering in churches and large ministries, believes that a digital presence can expand Christian outreach far beyond traditional settings.
From Church Information Desk to Global Outreach
“My ministry began within a church setting,” Jennifer explains. “I served on the information desk team, which is effectively an extension of the church office on a Sunday. Over time, this developed into Healing Relations TV and now Healing Relations PR — combining public relations, media, and sport-oriented outreach.”
This evolution reflects a growing need: meeting people where they are — and increasingly, that place is online.
Faith and Sport in the Digital Age
Sport is no longer confined to stadiums and television broadcasts. Online fan channels, athlete platforms, and ministry content have created new spaces for engagement.
“There are many aspects of sport online,” Jennifer says. “From football clubs’ fan TV channels to conversations about ethical issues such as gambling awareness. Initiatives like GamCare, often supported by sports bodies including Sports Chaplaincy UK and the The Football Association, highlight the need for pastoral and moral guidance in sport.”
Supporting Athletes Beyond the Pitch
Although she is not contracted to a specific sports club, Jennifer remains connected to the sporting community.
“My website includes a space where athletes can see testimonies and answered prayer requests. Even if I am not physically present with teams, I can still support them spiritually and pastorally online.”
This hybrid approach blends pastoral care with modern communication tools — extending encouragement to athletes who may never step into a traditional chaplaincy office.
What Does “Independent” Really Mean?
Being independent allows flexibility but also requires responsibility.
“It means I am not officially employed by a sports club or inducted by a governing association,” she explains. “However, I still engage with safeguarding standards and equality and diversity mandates, particularly around race relations and wellbeing.”
Balancing Ministry and Full-Time Work
Jennifer’s ministry operates alongside her full-time employment.
“Sport has seasons of highs and lows over nine months, and as an independent chaplain I may engage with multiple sports throughout the year. That means I must also remind myself to rest and take breaks for my health and wellbeing.”
The Reality of Content Creation
While digital ministry may appear glamorous, Jennifer is candid about the reality.
“As a sports chaplain and content creator, the guiding principle is to remain ethically, morally, and spiritually sound. This applies to everything — social media engagement, interviews, and even radio scripts.”
Her audio contributions are shared on platforms such as SoundCloud and YouTube, allowing messages of encouragement to reach a wider and more diverse audience.
Concerns for the Next Generation in Sport
One of Jennifer’s greatest concerns is the wellbeing of young people involved in sport.
“I am concerned about the abuse and neglect of young people and the lack of purposeful direction offered to them. Sport can shape character, but young people need guidance to understand their purpose beyond achievement and records.”
Being Open About Faith in Sport
Navigating faith within diverse team environments requires sensitivity.
“In integrated team settings, I must be non-judgemental and respectful of all beliefs. Online, I maintain a flexible presence so that my faith-based contributions remain accessible but never intrusive.”
Pull Quote:
“Digital chaplaincy allows ministry to reach athletes and supporters wherever they are — on and off the field.”
A Ministry for a Connected World
Jennifer believes that a public online presence is not a replacement for physical ministry but an extension of it.
“Christian outreach should meet people both in person and online. An online office enables continuous engagement, especially for those who may never walk into a church or chaplaincy space.”
Find Out More
To learn more about Jennifer’s work and upcoming initiatives, visit: Healing Relations PR
