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More and more Chaplains are being called upon for Hospice patients.  In fact, according to Continuum Hospice Care and Visiting Nurse Service of New York, two major hospice providers, Chaplain services have doubled in New York just in the past four years.

Patients in their final hours enjoy the comfort brought by this compassionate stranger who holds their hand and speaks to them, whether about the birds outside their window, losses or past regrets, guilt of leaving their family, or of being ready, or not so ready, to die.

Healthcare and religion experts agree, spiritual care comforts terminal patients; and because of the diverse population and their beliefs, Chaplains undergo training in accepting all patients' beliefs. No preaching to the patient, just care, comfort, an ear to listen, and words to help.

Bedside counseling provides a unique bond between the Chaplain and the hospice patient. "A vulneriblity to death is my first bond with my patient," says the Reverend Kai Okada, "We are there to be there. That is the point. It is my job to stay when there is no answer."

To read more about Hospice Chaplains and Beside Counseling in the New York Times, Please Click here.

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The December 2008 issue of Presence includes the reflection "Agape" by Jane Korins in which she refers to Picasso painting, Mother and Son. What reflections does the Picasso painting evoke in you? Click on the comments link below to tell your story about mother and child.