What is a Hospice Chaplain?
A hospice chaplain listens, bears witness, and seeks to understand your concerns. We are not psychotherapists, and our purpose is not to solve your problems. We do not do talk therapy. Instead, we engage with questions of meaning, purpose, and spiritual guidance.
Why Speak to a Hospice Chaplain?
Chaplains have been defined as persons called by God to minister to people’s spiritual needs. “Minister to people’s spiritual needs.”
What does that mean? I’d like to share a quote from a book titled, “What is Spiritual Freedom?”:
“The people who look the hardest for truth are those who are brought to the edge of despair. The rest of the people don’t need truth. They have health. They have microwave ovens. They have a new car. They have all the conveniences that life can give. What do they need God for?”
People often turn to a hospice chaplain when facing grief, illness, or end-of-life challenges. Chaplains provide a compassionate presence, helping individuals explore meaning, purpose, and comfort in difficult times.
The Role of a Chaplain
These are people who are suffering, searching for new meaning as a way to cope. For some, this is a time when the heart opens to God.
The role of a hospice chaplain is to listen and serve as an anchor for those facing despair. Even though we do not solve problems, our presence allows individuals to feel heard and supported, helping them begin their own conversation with the divine or their inner self.
Funeral Officiant and Non-Religious Funeral Services
In addition to hospice chaplaincy, I also serve as a funeral officiant, guiding families through meaningful ceremonies.
I provide non-religious funeral services for those who prefer a secular approach while still honoring the life and memory of their loved one. Every service is personalized, compassionate, and designed to bring comfort to family and friends.
If you or a loved one need support during hospice care, or wish to plan a meaningful ceremony with a funeral officiant, I am here to help. Contact me today to speak with a dedicated hospice chaplain and receive compassionate guidance during difficult times.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a hospice chaplain do?
A hospice chaplain provides emotional and spiritual support for patients and families during hospice or end-of-life care, helping them find peace and comfort.
Can a chaplain officiate a funeral?
Yes. As a funeral officiant, I conduct religious or non-religious funeral services tailored to honor your loved one’s life.
What is a non-religious funeral service?
A non-religious funeral service is a personalized ceremony that celebrates the life of your loved one without religious affiliation, while still offering meaningful closure and remembrance.
Where does religion fit in here?
The search for meaning and purpose is the mystery that religions deal with. It is my intent to meet you on the spiritual grounds you know and find comfort in, whether you follow a specific faith tradition, take from a variety of teachings, are agnostic or atheist. As a spiritual counselor, I am not there to preach to anyone.
Do we have to pray?
Many who practice a faith tradition see prayer as their way to begin their conversation with God. I am available to pray with you, if that gives you comfort and solace. Prayer certainly isn’t required.
Hospice Vistations: $20 PER HOUR
