Meet Chris Mattingly

Chris Mattingly is director of pastoral care at the Loretto Living Center. There is a piece of belonging for everyone in his program, which he has been continuing to develop since 2018. When engaging with individuals and/or groups, ambiance in the gathering space is important: windows with a nature view, lighting, lots of sunshine, appropriate music balanced with quiet space.

When visiting with individuals, Chris believes that listening is the most important element in bonding and building trust with each person. Listening is the essential element in making space for people to feel their own importance and identify their purpose in life.

There is time for prayer services, contemplation, adoration, rosary and silence. Popular with many residents are the roundtable group gatherings. One such time is “Current Events.” With this group gathering comes a discussion agreement: all are welcome, keep contributions civil, everyone is wrong sometimes, the moderator is neutral and each meeting concludes with prayer of healing of all issues discussed. Another group session is centered on mythology. These stories or beliefs are about a particular person, institution or situation and are exaggerated or fictitious in nature. Similar to a parable from Scripture, the participants are invited to place themselves into the story. The group focuses on myths so participants are freer to disagree with or even disapprove of the material and/or question the meanings.

Chris is a board-certified chaplain and third-year diaconal candidate in the five-year archdiocesan diaconate program. Along with his studies, his work here and his responsibilities to his wife and two young sons, life becomes rather hectic at times. But when he comes to the Loretto Living Center for the day, he brings his calm, prayerful presence, and we are grateful.

Chris is featured in this issue’s Spotlight video. You can watch it here.

To read all of the articles in the fall 2025 issue click here.