Multifaith spaces in hospital

[Dawnofhope]

I am a left handed liberal arts major and living proof of that. I actually simply got by on rote memorization had zero clue actually to what they were talking about. Years later i came to finally realize "oh it actually isnt me its them that have the issues" spending extra time in wild-er-ness places does that since eventually the spelling of culture begins to spell out as CULT-ure Which is actually the accurate and correct spelling. Starts in school!

A diversity of approaches are necessary for us to grow and develop. Its never a one size fits all. What works for you may not work for me and vice versa.

You have this crazy a** way of thinking and communicating that doesn't fit the formal education mould, but your spirit shines through.

 

[Dawnofhope]

I am a left handed liberal arts major and living proof of that. I actually simply got by on rote memorization had zero clue actually to what they were talking about. Years later i came to finally realize "oh it actually isnt me its them that have the issues" spending extra time in wild-er-ness places does that since eventually the spelling of culture begins to spell out as CULT-ure Which is actually the accurate and correct spelling. Starts in school!

A diversity of approaches are necessary for us to grow and develop. Its never a one size fits all. What works for you may not work for me and vice versa.

You have this crazy a** way of thinking and communicating that doesn't fit the formal education mould, but your spirit shines through.

 

[Dawnofhope]

The primary function is to heal the sick, religion should not interfere with that ideal. The inclusion of a non intrusive place of worship if space allows is to be applauded if it is financed by the religious groups involved and not from medical funding.

My training as a medical doctor emphasised the importance of providing health services that respect and incorporate where possible our patients beliefs and cultural preferences.

The point about funding is a helpful, and I see no reason why faith communities can not contribute to spaces in hospitals that support a persons culture and spiritual practices within a hospital setting.

Because large scale institutions such as hospital are a relative new phenomenon historically a great deal of thought and consultation needs to happen so as to deliver the best services to diverse multicultural populations.

 

[Dawnofhope]

They may not want to use a room that doesn't reflect the idea that Christianity is special.

A good way to get certain Christians riled up is to treat Christianity as if it's just another religion.

It is certainly the case that many Christians regard their faith as the only true faith. That does present a significant barrier if we are to move away from a chapel only model.

You're officially the first person I've seen admit that "spirituality" is linked to theism.

We're all spiritual beings IMHO whether we acknowledge it or not. If religion doesn't promote spirituality then that religion has lost sight of its purpose.

... while also being careful not to create the impression that you as a health care provider are endorsing it as part of their treatment program.

I see the value of many of the spiritual practices of my patients so I will be positive. I will not suggest to any patient who has no religion or spiritual practice they should have one. Nor do I believe atheist doctors should undermine and disparage their patients culture and beliefs. Its the old adage, if you don't have anything nice to say, then say nothing.

 

[arthra]

For the purposes of this thread I would appreciate hearing your thoughts and experiences about a spiritual dimension to healing in your life. Have you ever made use of a chapel or a space in a hospital?

I was a volunteer at a local hospital working under the chaplain's office for some three or four years. I'm a Baha'i. I found that the hospital was open to inter-faith services and invited members of the religious communities to conferences at the hospital. I would see about ten patients a day and we would have conferences later on our experiences. For those who asked for prayers I would accommodate them or encourage them to offer prayers.

I met a patient who also had a recent "near death experience" and I encouraged him to relate it...

If the patient requested I also would contact local churches in their denomination.

Over all I felt the experience was worthwhile.

 

[Dawnofhope]

I was a volunteer at a local hospital working under the chaplain's office for some three or four years. I'm a Baha'i. I found that the hospital was open to inter-faith services and invited members of the religious communities to conferences at the hospital. I would see about ten patients a day and we would have conferences later on our experiences. For those who asked for prayers I would accommodate them or encourage them to offer prayers.

I met a patient who also had a recent "near death experience" and I encouraged him to relate it...

If the patient requested I also would contact local churches in their denomination.

Over all I felt the experience was worthwhile.

My experience with the Chaplaincy service has generally been positive too. I think they have training about other faiths and even if they don't their day to day reality in my country is coming across peoples of no faith or a different faith. I think they have learn to adapt. Perhaps the types of people that are attracted to this arena of work tend to be more compassionate and inclusive. Besides they are publically funded so they would risk losing an income of they got off side with too many people.

Nice to hear from you.