View from our spiritual centre.

Spirituality is an intrinsic part of our humanity, though how that spirituality is understood and lived out is unique to each individual.

In general terms, spirituality refers to that which gives us our sense of hope, belonging, connection, value, and meaning. This may be expressed through, for instance, believing in God, connecting with nature, participating in a particular religious tradition, having a creative practice, exploring the dimensions of the human spirit, praying and meditating, and much more.

In times of health crisis and change, patients and families often find much comfort in their spiritual beliefs and practices, but sometimes a critical health situation initiates a period of spiritual struggle, doubt and re-ordering. People often have a mix of feelings. All of these experiences are normal and natural.

At Foothills Country Hospice, you will find that everyone who works here is dedicated to caring for people holistically, in body, mind, heart and spirit. In hospice palliative care, the spiritual life of patients and families often plays a big part in the final journey they, or their loved one, is on.

A professional healthcare chaplain can offer you many kinds of spiritual care services, within the context of your own beliefs, such as:

• compassionate presence and non-judgmental listening;

• emotional support in times of distress, discernment or struggle;

• spiritual counselling;

• connection with clergy, faith communities and other spiritual/religious resources;

• prayer, meditation and ritual;

• grief support;

• a chance to simply talk, laugh, and pass the time

Spiritual care services are available to patients and their loved ones. We also have a beautiful “spiritual room,” with large windows and a wonderful view of nature, where you can rest and renew yourself.

Peace,
Monica Kilburn-Smith,
Spiritual Care Director, Foothills Country Hospice
BA, Grad DIP DT, MTS, Pastoral Care Specialist C.A.P.P.E