Hospice Chaplains: Presence and Listening at the End of Life

Authors

  • Charles J. Lopez Jr. Pastor with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Pacifica Synod.

Abstract

The hospice chaplain is "the symbolic presence of God" by providing listening and presence. The emphasis on spiritual care at the end of life may generate significant interest in going deeper into one's relationship with God/the Holy One. Hospice underscores the very integration of the body, mind, and spirit. Therefore, hospice chaplains are able to be of benefit to the dying individuals and their family members by providing them presence and listening. Listening and presence are the necessary foundations for all hospice chaplains. 

 

Author Biography

Charles J. Lopez Jr., Pastor with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Pacifica Synod.

Spiritual director, counselor, parish pastor, and hospice chaplain. For thirteen years, he served as chaplain/spiritual care provider with Providence TrinityCare Hospice (part of Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center) in Torrance, California.

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Published

2017-12-28

Issue

Vol. 45 No. 1 (2018): Reformations That Await Us

Section

Currents Focus

License

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