Joy is at the heart of everything Chaplain Tait does. Armed with a karaoke machine, self-curated worship materials, stories, poetry and the word of God, he creates meaningful experiences that resonate with residents of all backgrounds. His approachable nature and generous spirit of service have made him much more than just a chaplain at Sam Swope Care Center –— he’s become a source of comfort, connection and hope for residents, families and team members alike.

The son of a pastor, Chaplain Tait spent 21 years as a rotating pastor serving congregations in Seattle to Mississippi to Louisville, where he and his wife decided to put down roots.

“My home consists of me, my wife, our two children and my mother-in-law,” shared Tait. “As a rotating pastor, we moved around to different churches, but we liked Louisville and wanted to create a more stable life for our children.”

That’s when he decided to move into chaplaincy at Masonic Homes Kentucky.

“I’m able to focus on ministry and not the ins and out of running a congregation. I love giving people joy whether that’s through a smile or a tear,” said Tait.

Before finding his calling to ministry, Tait was a teacher and still relies on many of the same principles in his work as a chaplain.

“Everyone has a different learning style and a different cognitive level. What connects for one person may not connect for another,” said Tait.

Every service is designed with his audience in mind. Tait creates his own worship materials, selecting scripture, illustrations and music that appeal to residents of varying cognitive abilities and learning styles. Worshippers can follow along using printed handouts while the lyrics and visuals are projected on a screen. He brings his own karaoke machine to provide music, including special resident requests.

“I always have a feel-good video playing at the beginning so attendees can pray, meditate or sit quietly while others arrive,” said Tait. “I usually start with a short responsive prayer, take prayer requests and give a short sermon that pertains to older adults.”

Sam Swope Care Center resident Evelyn Dugan was raised Catholic and makes no qualms about her religion coming first. Although her religious traditions differ from Tait’s, she rarely misses his Sunday non-denominational service.

“I get out of my room and make it a priority to attend church service,” said Evelyn. “But not all the residents do, so his visits or just a wave when he passes by your room lets everyone know he’s around if they need him which I think is important for a lot of residents.”

Evelyn and Tait both find joy in their weekly connection. “I enjoy my visits with Chaplain Tait,” said Evelyn. “He’s one you can sit with and talk about anything you want.”

Tait added, “She is matter-of-a-fact and will tell me what she is thinking which is refreshing. We have some great conversations and we laugh a lot.” He continued, “Listening is a huge part of what I do. Sometimes someone just needs to talk and it brings me joy to hear residents express themselves.”

Holding Sunday services, which have grown in size, are just one of Tait’s duties. He also works Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays making rounds on residents and team members, hosting weekly Bible studies and preparing for two Sunday services. Tait is also an integral part of the Care Center’s Life Enrichment team helping transport residents to and from activities and being on-call for whatever is needed from giving last rites to providing comfort to a team member in need.

A common thread among residents and team members is Tait’s positive influence on the entire community. “He’s not just here for me, he’s here for everybody,” said Evelyn.

Care Center’s Life Enrichment Director Amanda Dowdle said Tait goes out of his way to ensure residents have what they need spiritually and emotionally.

“Every week he leads a one-on-one Bible study with a resident who is blind and hearing impaired. He consistently goes above and beyond to ensure every resident receives the spiritual and emotional support they need.”

He extends that same compassionate support to fellow team members. “Our community was missing a dedicated resource for employee engagement through the Chaplain program,” Amanda said. “His calm demeanor and ability to adapt to any situation have helped him build meaningful relationships with team members, who often seek him out for guidance and support throughout the workday.”

For Chaplain Tait, he just wants residents to understand that God is with them where ever they are and even when their church traditions are different.

“I remind them each and every day they can find hope and joy,” said Tait. “No matter what challenges a person is facing – whether it’s memory loss, limited mobility, hearing issues or emotional struggles – even the hardest day comes with at least one blessing from God.”

Life enriching activities are supported through Masonic Homes Kentucky charitable care. Donate now to support meaning connections for residents.

August 20, 2026