The role of the Hospice chaplain

Contributed by:
Maryjo Zacher, Director of Pastoral Care – OSF Home Care Services

When a patient or a family is able to make the decision to receive palliative care, many aspects of care must be treated. First on the list for most physical needs and appropriate management of symptoms. Another need that many people experience is the desire for spiritual peace and where pastoral services, namely the chaplains of the hospice, can be useful.

The hospice chaplain is specially trained to support people looking at the spiritual aspect of their lives. The hospice chaplain can also provide a connection to the patient / family clergy or a name of choice.

One of the most important things to know is that the Hospice chaplain is not approach with any spiritual “program”. He or she is able to interact with people wherever they are in their spiritual journey; They see people of all faiths and people without faith.

The chaplains of the hospice also help the planning of funeral, or even to provide funeral / commemorative services if the patient / family does not have his own clergy. Other rituals are sometimes very useful for families during this period.

Listen: The greatest way to serve patients in palliative care

It may seem very simple, but in fact the greatest means that the chaplain serves people is to listen. We listen to hopes, dreams, fears and personal history. We can also facilitate the reception of the sacraments if this is important for the patient. The hospice chaplain will also often help to facilitate reconciliation within families. These services all come together to support the patient / family during his life and help them prepare for peaceful death.

Last update: October 31, 2018