When lives are in the balance and uncertainty
overcomes a person, a kind word, gentle touch
or whispered prayer can soothe a soul and bring
peace. During such moments health care chaplains
are at their best. In hospitals, hospices, mental
health hospitals and nursing homes, chaplains
minister to patients, their families and medical
staff through unconditional love, sacrifice and
service.
A chaplain may notify family members when a
loved one has died. At other times chaplains
comfort dying patients, conduct funerals, serve
communion, perform memorial services and act
as a mediator between medical staff and families.
Chaplains also have administrative duties, but
their main role is to be an effective witness
for Christ.
Health care chaplains must have exceptional
people skills, be able to quickly connect with
strangers, be self-motivated and able to maintain
their spiritual integrity in an often stressful
and emotionally draining secular environment.
Chaplains must also be sensitive and respect
other people’s faith traditions. In many
cases, a chaplain must work with clergy of other
faith groups to minister to an individual.
Among other requirements, most health care
positions require a master of divinity degree
from an accredited seminary.
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