Spiritual Care of the Sick

Abstract

In the Gospel we see how people bring the sick to Christ to be healed. As physicians, nurses, and chaplains we are God's instruments bringing physical and spiritual healing to the sick. It is important for those of us who care for the sick to ask them about their religious affiliation and spiritual needs, and then following their cues and in a respectful way to encourage them to pray and, in the case of Catholics, to receive the sacraments. We should also pray for our patients, and when we think they would like it, to pray with them. Summary Physicians and nurses, not only chaplains, should ask patients about their religious beliefs, offer to find spiritual assistance for them, and when appropriate pray with them.