Sr Anne Brittain, NDS.
Medical care explains itself. My body is not functioning well and the aids that can be bought at the local Pharmacy are not enough to bring me healing and strength. So, a hospital environment, with specialist services can provide the answer. Different departments offer specific tests and follow-ups.
Many hospitals in the UK (and elsewhere) also have Spiritual Care Teams who work under the auspices of the National Health Service. The team often comprises members from different faith traditions: Christian chaplains from a range of denominations, as well as Jewish and Muslim chaplains and leaders from traditions such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Sikhism, who can be contacted when needed.
The hospital can be a very frightening and noisy environment
The hospital can be a very frightening and noisy environment, especially when it is the first time a person has been confined to one. Beds are often quite close together and wards, out of necessity, can have patients with different needs. For some people, the whole experience can be really overwhelming. For a few, who are quite isolated at home, the social factor and the kindness received in the hospital can be a big factor in the recovery process. I have encountered long-term patients who received very few, if any, visits from family and friends.
In these situations, a chaplain from the Spiritual Care Team can be a listening presence. A women recovering from a serious operation is carrying the burden of anxiety and guilt over her ailing husband for whom she cares at home. A man whose medical condition has worsened, finds himself stranded, alone and dying in an alien culture and language. Sometimes a patient just needs to talk; their life story comes tumbling out.
Sometimes a patient just needs to talk
What a privilege it has been to accompany such a patient, man or woman. The “now” is right, and the presence of God, although not always explicit, is tangible. I have found that the hospital environment slows us all down. Facial expressions and body language are more obvious and open. Vulnerabilities don’t need to be hidden.
In my role as Catholic Chaplain at North Manchester General Hospital, I administer the Eucharist to those who would like to receive. Sometimes it is really humbling to witness and encounter the deep faith of a patient when they receive the small host and a prayer is shared together.
Friendships with patients, and their families form around common faith experiences, mutual concerns and acquaintances. Ultimately, I find I am walking beside each person I visit for a short time. The patient’s life journey may end in the hospital; that is not so much my concern. The important thing, I have found, is to BE PRESENT to each encounter with as much openness, inner truth and compassion as possible.
The important thing is to be present to each encounter
A grumpy, distracted person at a sick person’s bedside brings a negative energy. I feel the need to prepare before meeting each new face. I do this by silencing myself, praying reflectively beforehand and calling on God who knows us all intimately. I have also found that it is important to be aware of what is happening within me, both before and after encountering patients and staff. My own emotions are often triggered; they also need attendance.
Each person is a unique creation; I may never see this human being again. Who knows? I feel I am called to give time to each person. God has not rushed and is not rushing, so why should I?
Sr Anne Brittain NDS
NMGH, Manchester University Hospital Trust
Main photo: The Eye of Providence in the chapel of St Nicodemus and St Joseph of Arimathea, Ramla, a reminder of God’s presence and watchful care.