Would you use a hospital chaplain?

[Depleted]

In the last few of months hospital chaplains show up in John's room. For the first eight weeks, unless I was there, they really had no one to respond to them. John was out of it. A few weeks ago, a priest stopped by and ended up asking John how it happened that he is Polish but left the Catholic Church. John was delirious then, so no telling how he really answered, (although he is polite to strangers), but he told me he was thinking, "I read the bible?"

Truthfully, I find the entire occupation of hospital chaplain bizarre. You have to play PC for any belief system. You have to be supportive and accepting of whatever the patient believes, even if she thinks Rocky the Squirrel is God and Bullwinkle is Vice God. I get it's their job to pray and comfort patients, but how comforting is it when they promise to pray to god when you're not even sure they know him?

And, so far, I met one reverend that wasn't Catholic but still wore a dark-colored priest shirt, so I'm guessing maybe he was episcopalian? (I didn't ask.) I've seen the priest in the corridors but haven't talked to him. And, we had one powerhouse of a woman who was about 4'8" but I got the distinct impression she was sweet and kind, but no one wants to mess with her. (You know the type. She usually is "Mom" to every kid in the neighborhood, right down to always having fresh homemade cookies, but moonlights as a drill sergeant. lol)

We were polite, but really didn't use their help, since what help could they provide anyway?

So, have you ever used one? Would you? And why?

 

[seed_time_harvest]

I wouldn't use one, I would ask my own pastor because the chaplain might not represent right doctrine, but I understand that people In the world like anyone, want to be consoled.

 

[Joidevivre]

Someone critically sick does not care about doctrine. They mostly want someone to just say a prayer for them. Sometimes just sit with them and hold their hand (nurses are too busy). When I worked as a hospital chaplain, the family usually wanted me to join them in prayer for the patient. I provided kleenex, gave bibles if wanted, poured water, even phoned their own pastor to come visit if they wanted that person. Served in any way that was needed or wanted. Even helped with funeral arrangements if required.

Here in Calif., there is a rule that no chaplains can visit any patient unless a patient requests one. And that patient can also just ask for a priest if they are Catholic. But the priest does not come around unless asked for as I could not either. Chaplains must be ordained and licensed in the state of Calif. They must come with references. Everyone I worked with were sincere Christians who wanted only to be there in whatever capacity the patient needed them for. Mostly the spouses needed someone to just sit with them at times. Be a loving presence. Not a "preacher".

If it is a Catholic run hospital, things could be different.

 

[Depleted]

Someone critically sick does not care about doctrine. They mostly want someone to just say a prayer for them. Sometimes just sit with them and hold their hand (nurses are too busy). When I worked as a hospital chaplain, the family usually wanted me to join them in prayer for the patient. I provided kleenex, gave bibles if wanted, poured water, even phoned their own pastor to come visit if they wanted that person. Served in any way that was needed or wanted. Even helped with funeral arrangements if required.

Here in Calif., there is a rule that no chaplains can visit any patient unless a patient requests one. And that patient can also just ask for a priest if they are Catholic. But the priest does not come around unless asked for as I could not either. Chaplains must be ordained and licensed in the state of Calif. They must come with references. Everyone I worked with were sincere Christians who wanted only to be there in whatever capacity the patient needed them for. Mostly the spouses needed someone to just sit with them at times. Be a loving presence. Not a "preacher".

If it is a Catholic run hospital, things could be different.

One hospital was U. of Penn. This one is the veteran's hospital.

 

[Angela53510]

I was a chaplain in long term care. It was a Lutheran institution, and the other chaplain made it his business to present Christ to the residents and their families. I did too! I also prayed with people, read them the Bible, and did a lot of listening. My prayer is that I comforted some, encouraged others and convicted those who needed convicting.

But the year before, my father was in the hospital dying. I asked for the chaplain and it was pretty obvious he was not a Christian. I had the feeling he didn't even know how to fake a prayer, and I was pretty upset.

God was good, and I was taking a course on spiritual formation. I tried different kinds of prayers, new ways of reading the Bible and meditating on the words of life. So I think you could say the Holy Spirit was my chaplain. And my experience with my father, being there for him for 5 months as he slowly faded, leading him to the Lord, inspired me to become a chaplain. I would still be doing it today if I could walk.

So I think in your generic hospital setting, you probably could get anything and everything. My daughter was doing her social work practicum in the hospital next to the one my father was in. She spent time in the palliative care unit and talked with the chaplains there. Turns out they were atheists. I could not for the life of me understand why an atheist would want to be a palliative care chaplain. My daughter said they they told her they were "privileged to comfort the dying." I guess if you had no one, that would be very precious. But I still don't get the purpose of a chaplain with no faith.

 

[wwjd_kilden]

I'm not sure how common they are around here. I don't think I'd want one to ... hang around ... but if I was feeling down I might ask someone to ask him to pray for me, one more can't hurt

 

[pwrnJC]

Angela53510.....Shocker! My experience as seeking to be an Armed Forces chaplain opened my eyes to the same TRUTH. Sadly, in today's Modern world, being a public chaplain, whether in a hospital, military or medical/nursing home facility, only means a paid position. My son signed up for the Air Force the day after 911. I went with him to Dover AirForce base to be part of the swearing in ceremony. My heart was pricked and touched, because I felt an inward desire to become a chaplain on the spot. I was already a licensed minister with a seminary background, so I sought info there to sign up and become "all that I could be" and offer my services to our American soldiers. What a shock I got when I got to investigating and finding out the real purpose and position of a chaplain! First of all, I was told that I could not 'proselyte (win anyone over to CHRIST)" at all. I could not witness or try to persuade people of any 'faith" to seek JESUS CHRIST. I was not allowed to testify of His glory. I could not decorate or fill the chapel with anything that would offend anyone. In fact, my nephew, who was at that time in the armed services, told me that the chapel on his base is also used for the graduation ceremonys. All signs of the cross, or anything that would suggest 'religion" was taken down, as to not offend or be part of the backdrop in the pictures! A chaplain is simply a figurehead, a shoulder to cry upon, and a venue to console or offer certain 'rights" if the family requests it. I was told that I had to treat atheists, wiccans, voodoo doctors, or anyone of any faith or 'religion" as equal, as far as making them feel secure in their own ways of thinking. I was to be a non-offensive dignity, a representative of that particular branch of the service. In short, I could party with the 'drinking irish catholics at a wake", stand stoic and lifeless as if in a synagogue with the Jews, keep or show a bible only if requested by the family during a funeral, because some of the dead soldiers just might not be CHRISTIANS! I had to 'stay neutral" in my approach to all 'religions" and be mindful of how they felt. It actually gets much deeper and much worse the more I found out about being a chaplain. I just hit a few of the HIGH spots here! How did I manage this, being an evangelical CHRISTIAN? I politely bowed out, backed up and recanted my idea of being an American chaplain.

 

[seed_time_harvest]

I wouldn't use one, I would ask my own pastor because the chaplain might not represent right doctrine, but I understand that people In the world like anyone, want to be consoled.

I guess the part about

but I understand that people In the world like anyone, want to be consoled.

was overlooked.

 

[JeniBean]

Most hospitals have a chapel and priest or preacher. I have been in way to many last few years to not notice this. As I am there for others whom I love, I simply tell them if I haven't told the staff that I have a preacher and elders, I thank you for your prayers and compassion during this time. I do not allow further conversation with the patient. I ALWAYS inform the staff no visitors unless pre-approved, this way a priest may not enter when I am not around.

 

[Willie-T]

I have to admit that I am sitting here with my jaw hanging down, thinking, "My Gawd!"

First of all, what is "USING" a hospital chaplain?

I'm with *Jo* on this. (And I will just have to let it go with what she said, because I am too flabbergasted to even be able to compose anything sensible right now.)

 

[KennethC]

Most to all hospitals in the United States have ministers/chaplains from all to most denominations that visit them and even work for the hospitals in some cases on a regular basis.

If you do not feel comfortable using a certain minister you can ask to request your own to come in, or you can ask for one that represents the denomination you belong to to come in.

My dad just passed away 6 months ago from cancer and a blood clot that went to his brain, and we allowed a couple of ministers to pray over him that was in the hospital as well as prayed ourselves.


We must remember also it is not what the person praying believes that matters, it is what you believe !!!

So if the name of Jesus is being professed in the prayer and you are a follower of Him, then in your heart and mind you know that the Lord is proclaimed !!!

 

[shebamo]

For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. I think I would have to hear the chaplain confess that Jesus is Lord though.

 

[Depleted]

I have to admit that I am sitting here with my jaw hanging down, thinking, "My Gawd!"

First of all, what is "USING" a hospital chaplain?

I'm with *Jo* on this. (And I will just have to let it go with what she said, because I am too flabbergasted to even be able to compose anything sensible right now.)

Use = to make use of?

Phillyism that doesn't translate in other parts of the country?

I also use the subway, use detergent when washing clothes, and used to be young and thin. (Maybe that last one is a different sense of the word. lol)

I didn't mean use as in use drugs or use someone up. Really did just mean make use of, or use that service. Sorry to freak ya.

 

[Depleted]

Most to all hospitals in the United States have ministers/chaplains from all to most denominations that visit them and even work for the hospitals in some cases on a regular basis.

If you do not feel comfortable using a certain minister you can ask to request your own to come in, or you can ask for one that represents the denomination you belong to to come in.

My dad just passed away 6 months ago from cancer and a blood clot that went to his brain, and we allowed a couple of ministers to pray over him that was in the hospital as well as prayed ourselves.


We must remember also it is not what the person praying believes that matters, it is what you believe !!!

So if the name of Jesus is being professed in the prayer and you are a follower of Him, then in your heart and mind you know that the Lord is proclaimed !!!

Oh, when they asked if they can pray for him, I was happy to accept the offer. I figure if someone prays, there is only one God hearing the prayer. I'm not mean about it, just confused on how they operate.

 

[Depleted]

For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. I think I would have to hear the chaplain confess that Jesus is Lord though.

I tended toward having other concerns at that moment, but you might be right. Probably would have been an interesting time to witness.

 

[Willie-T]

Use = to make use of?

Phillyism that doesn't translate in other parts of the country?

I also use the subway, use detergent when washing clothes, and used to be young and thin. (Maybe that last one is a different sense of the word. lol)

I didn't mean use as in use drugs or use someone up. Really did just mean make use of, or use that service. Sorry to freak ya.

Didn't freak me out. Personally, I would enjoy anyone who cared enough to drop in and see about me. Atheist to Zulu.

 

[KennethC]

Oh, when they asked if they can pray for him, I was happy to accept the offer. I figure if someone prays, there is only one God hearing the prayer. I'm not mean about it, just confused on how they operate.

Well your hospital chaplains are no different then church ministers, and some of them do have a church they belong to and minister at.

The hospital is either a side job for them or in some cases this is where fresh out of bible college or Seminary school ordained ministers are placed to get some on hand experience with dealing with people in dire situations before they find a placement for them to minister a church.

I know some people have a problem with them having jobs, but there is nothing against that in God's word !!!

The only thing that I don't like is when the role of a minister is looked at as a job and given a set salary, that then turns the position into a obligatory role. As we know the bible says nothing we do is to be done in obligation !!!

We still must remember that they are human and no human is infallible but can make mistakes, just because a person is ordained does not make them always correct in what they say.

We have a bad concept going around right now where people want to quickly slap the term "false teacher" on somebody just because they heard them say something wrong once !!!

I have to hear them constantly say the same wrong thing constantly before doing that.

 

[3Scoreand10]

Here is my take on this.
If all belivers were members of a local church as they should be, and the pastor of that church was doing what he should, there would be no need for chaplians.

 

[Chuckt]

So, have you ever used one? Would you? And why?

No because it is hard to find churches that teach, believe and practice the truth. There were over 30 churches in my home town and only four churches out of the 30 I went to taught that you should be born again.

Ephesians 5:6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.

Matthew 24:4 And Jesus answered and said to them, Take heed that no man deceive you.

The problem is that some chaplains are paid by the hospitals and they don't want to discriminate so they aren't going to get someone who believes that Jesus is the only way. I don't know everyone's motivation but some of them are downright creepy because you have to be a hireling or an actor because someone who isn't a believer in "the way" as in the only way is an actor which means hypocrite. Such a person may have some head knowledge because they have to know a little or their job but what tune are they going to play for someone who is sick from another faith?

1 Thessalonians 4:6 That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified.

By representing the clergy, they are basically defrauding anyone asking for truth. I would find that unconscionable but they don't understand that it is wrong because they don't believe the truth.

Hebrews 9:27 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:


Romans 14:12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.

 

[MsKy]

Where to start…

Most hospitals require chaplains to have a masters, internship and have served in a (paid or not paid) one year resident program. As far as education vs. salary goes, they are an underpaid group of professionals. Hospitals have many different types of chaplains (mostly mainstream Christian or Catholic). Chaplains do so much more than make rounds and pray for families in need.

*In many level one trauma hospitals chaplains are required to respond to every trauma.
* In many hospitals they serve as ministers to the hospital staff, specifically pediatric staff, surgeons, ER and trauma staff who see a lot of death.
*In many hospitals chaplains complete end of death paperwork, work with nurses to prepare the dead bodies before families come in to say goodbye
*Many surgical staff use chaplains as a go between to families, they must understand medical terminology
*Chaplains are trained in death and dying counseling and take many of the same courses as MSWs
*Chaplains serve as a spiritual guide in the hospital, many sit on ethics boards, provide spiritual guidance to hospital boards, etc.
*Chaplains in most university and education hospitals are viewed as essential staff
*Chaplains do have to meet a pt's spiritual need. If the pt needs a Catholic priest, the chaplain calls their priest or calls one from a provided list
*Chaplains are allowed in the surgery rooms. I know a surgeon who if they know their pt wants prayer will have a chaplain come in and pray during the surgery
*In some hospitals chaplains are used to call parents of children/teens who have been in accidents, traumas, etc.
*Because chaplains have counseling and crisis intervention training many times chaplains can deescalate a situation between families and criminals…. Example: Someone is shot and or high yelling at staff, etc. Or if families are upset at one another and fighting, the chaplain can come in and resolve so that security isn't needed.
*Many chaplains serve in our military

You don't have to see a chaplain, many Christians use their own pastor or a local minister. However, sometimes chaplains have medical training or have dealt with end of life matters far more than a pastor and can be a great help to families in need.