Contents
Introduction....................................................................................................................................1
Patient Dynamics...........................................................................................................................1
Chaplain Care Receptivity............................................................................................................2
Chaplain's Self-awareness.............................................................................................................2
Conclusion......................................................................................................................................3
Bibliography...................................................................................................................................5
ii
1
Introduction
In this reflection paper, I will delve into my ministry verbatim, which recounts a spiritual
care encounter with Jay Smith, a 42-year-old male Hospice patient suffering from stage 4 lung
cancer. Jay is an experienced surgical RN with 18 years of service, married to Jenny Smith, and
has three children: Carrie (6), John (8), and Rebecca (10). They actively participate in the First
Baptist Church in Forest, VA. This paper will focus on patient dynamics, the patient's reception
or rejection of the chaplain's ministry, and my self-awareness during the encounter.
Patient Dynamics
When providing spiritual care, it is crucial for a chaplain to learn as much as possible
about the patient. "Identification of usual religious beliefs and practices,"1 as stated by Mary
Elizabeth O'Brien, "whether the family associates with a particular denomination or church, how
religious beliefs influence the family's perception of illness, whether the family relies on
religious healers or remedies for illness, and who provides religious support to the family."2
Understanding Jay's background is essential to provide effective spiritual care. His active
participation in a men's Bible study at his church and unwavering faith in the resurrection and
life in Christ give him strength during this terminal illness. Jay's religious beliefs and practices
significantly influence his perception of illness, making it vital for me to tailor my care to align
with his values and provide meaningful support.
Furthermore, acknowledging Jay's close-knit family and active church involvement
highlights the immense support they can provide during this challenging time. Knowing that Jay
is in excruciating pain and yet chooses to spend quality time with his family by avoiding
1 Nancy E. Gallagher, "Verbatims from CPE," Sacred Journeying, accessed August 4, 2023,
http://sacredjourneying.blogspot.com/p/verbatims-from-cpe.html.
2 Mary Elizabeth O'Brien, Spirituality in Nursing: Standing on Holy Ground, 6th ed.
(Burlington: Jones & Bartlett Learning, 2018), 183
2
excessive pain medication indicates his dedication to his loved ones. This insight helps me frame
my spiritual care to complement the existing support system and ensure a holistic approach to his
care.
Chaplain Care Receptivity
Throughout the encounter, Jay has been receptive to my spiritual care. His coherent and
engaged responses show that our interactions have resonated with him. Despite facing despair,
Jay finds comfort and strength in his faith, supported by his family, church, and the healthcare
facility's chaplain (myself). This positive reception reinforces the significance of a chaplain's role
in providing spiritual support to patients and their families during challenging times.
Additionally, Jay and his family's explicit request for ongoing spiritual care throughout
his illness demonstrates the trust and rapport we have developed. Building such a strong bond is
fundamental to effectively meeting patients' and their family's emotional and spiritual needs.
This experience highlights the importance of active listening and genuine empathy in the
chaplain's approach to care.
However, it is essential to recognize that not all patients may seek or find solace in
spiritual care. As a chaplain, I must be mindful of patients' boundaries and preferences, ensuring
they feel respected and supported in their decisions. It is crucial to be attuned to non-verbal cues
and provide a non-intrusive environment for patients to express their preferences. Offering
spiritual care with sensitivity allows patients to feel empowered in their spiritual journey and
choices. Chaplains must adapt their approach to each patient's unique needs and preferences.
3
Chaplain's Self-awareness
Self-awareness is a crucial quality in a chaplain. "Helped chaplain to become aware of
how patient's stories are triggering his emotions and memories"3 (S15), writes Ramakrishnan
Parameswaran.4 As a result of practicing mindfulness, people can better listen attentively and
process the patient's words and thoughts, allowing the chaplain to "reflectively and vicariously
feel and understand the pain and suffering of the patient accurately."5 However, chaplains should
not let their preconceived notions or emotional baggage prevent them from listening to patients
who may have views that differ from their own. Every chaplain ought to make self-awareness
one of their primary foci. According to Gordon Hilsman, "knowing oneself better, our self-
awareness has not only been a long-standing objective in clinical pastoral education but is one of
the most commonly named personal changes appreciated by participants after a CPE program."6
Self-awareness is an integral part of effective chaplaincy. My mindfulness and
attentiveness during the encounter with Jay and his family have enabled me to listen to their
stories without interfering with my emotions and memories. It allows me to be present for
distressed patients and empathetically understand their pain and suffering.
Furthermore, acknowledging my beliefs and biases ensures I do not impose them on
patients. My role is to support patients wherever they are on their spiritual path, providing a non-
judgmental and safe space for them to explore their beliefs and emotions. My commitment to
3 Ramakrishnan Parameshwaran, "Theory and Practice of Chaplain's Spiritual Care Process: A Psychiatrist's
Experiences of Chaplaincy and Conceptualizing Trans-Personal Model of Mindfulness," Indian Journal of
Psychiatry 57, no. 1 (2015): 24.
4 Ibid.
5 Gordon J. Hilsman, "Beyond Virtue: The Growth of Spiritual Skills During Initial Pastoral Education,"
Reflective Practice: Formation and Supervision in Ministry, accessed August 4, 2023,
https://journals.sfu.ca/rpfs/index.php/rpfs/article/view/70.
6 Ibid.
4
continuous self-awareness strengthens my ability to provide compassionate care and fosters trust
and openness with patients.
Conclusion
This ministry, verbatim of the spiritual care encounter with Jay Smith, has provided
valuable insights into patient dynamics, the reception of the chaplain's ministry, and the
significance of self-awareness in my role as a chaplain. Understanding Jay's religious
background, respecting his choices, and practicing self-awareness has enhanced my ability to
provide meaningful spiritual care. As a chaplain, I remain committed to tailoring my care to meet
each patient's unique needs, ensuring they feel supported and respected throughout their spiritual
journey. The encounter with Jay and his family has reaffirmed the transformative power of
spiritual care and inspires me to continue developing my skills as a compassionate and
empathetic spiritual caregiver.
5
Bibliography
Gallagher, Nancy E. "Verbatims from CPE." Sacred Journeying. Accessed August 4, 2023.
http://sacredjourneying.blogspot.com/p/verbatims-from-cpe.html.
Hilsman, Gordon J. "Beyond Virtue: The Growth of Spiritual Skills During Initial Pastoral
Education." Reflective Practice: Formation and Supervision in Ministry. Accessed
August 4, 2023. https://journals.sfu.ca/rpfs/index.php/rpfs/article/view/70.
O'Brien, Mary Elizabeth. Spirituality in Nursing: Standing on Holy Ground. 6th ed. Burlington:
Jones & Bartlett Learning, 2018.
Parameshwaran, Ramakrishnan. "Theory and Practice of Chaplain's Spiritual Care Process: A
Psychiatrist's Experiences of Chaplaincy and Conceptualizing Trans-Personal Model of
Mindfulness." Indian Journal of Psychiatry 57, no. 1 (2015): 21-29.
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