Spiritual Care
The Spiritual Care Department seeks to honor the needs of individuals by providing a spiritual support system to the community of Billings Clinic Hospital in a sensitive and timely manner, while honoring the multicultural and religious diversity of patients, families and staff
Trauma, injury, and illness brings unexpected changes that call upon one to explore a new relationship with life. The question is where does one begin such a journey and to whom can one turn to along the way?
At Billings Clinic we are sensitive to these concerns. We understand that all aspects of individual care need attention in moments such as this. The chaplains exist to respond to these needs. Whether you are a patient, a family member, friend, or staff member these needs may be addressed by one of our professionally trained healthcare chaplains.
Chaplains Offer Spiritual Care
Everyone's life is a story, unique and precious. One of the greatest gifts one person can give another is being a listening presence. And when we hit a crisis in our lives, such as a hospitalization or serious injury or illness, having a listening presence to hear our stories is more crucial than ever. An attentive listening presence can help bring about renewed hope and healing. This is the core work of the hospital chaplain.
The chaplains’ program is a vital part of Billings Clinic’s interdisciplinary healthcare team concept. They are an intricate part of a diverse approach that honors the physical, emotional, and spiritual requirements of those being cared for at our hospital.
Our chaplains respect the multiplicity of all faiths and denominations, honoring the personal relationship between the individual and their understanding of life’s bigger picture. Many choose to have personal faith discussions with our chaplains, while others benefit from discovering the healing value of a good friend and devoted listener.
Private Chapel Worship or Meditation
Billings Clinic recognizes that many who are away from home and their faith community need a place to turn for spiritual nourishment and healing. Our approach to caring for your spiritual needs is tailored to meet your unique story and perspective. No matter your faith, or no faith at all, you are welcome to call on them.
Individualized Spiritual Care
Deaconess Chapel is located in the first floor atrium of the hospital across from the pharmacy.
Always open, the chapel is:
- a place where people of all faiths can pray and meditate
- a sanctuary to refresh the heart and mind
- a gathering place for worship
- a source of sacred scripture as well as helpful information on a variety of concerns
Patients and families may desire a chaplain when
• Anxious about their condition or treatments.
• Wish to receive prayer, ceremony or readings.
• Facing difficult decisions.
• Having spiritual or religious concerns or questions.
• Patient wishing to receive a visit from a clergy member, priest, rabbi from the community to perform specific rites or ceremonies.
• Struggling with the meaning of injury or illness.
• Grieving over a loss (e.g. disability, life transition, death in the family or loss of friend.).
• Wanting to reflect on spiritual issues and concerns.
• Wish to celebrate and give thanks for results and positive outcomes.
Visiting with the Chaplain
Patient’s can request a chaplain by talking to their nurse or other healthcare professional. Chaplains regularly round throughout the hospital on a regular basis. Chaplains are on-site Monday through Saturday during daytime hours but can be contacted as needed during other hours.
If you’d like to request a chaplain visit for a loved one or would like to contact the chaplains, please call 406-657-4747 or email pastoralcare@billingsclinic.org.
Clinical Pastoral Education - Looking for a CPE Site?
Part of Billings Clinic mission is education.
While we do not offer a CPE program or residency, we would welcome the opportunity to talk to you if you are enrolled in an accredited seminary or theological school that includes Clinical Pastoral Education as a part of your program. If you are looking for a site to fulfill your CPE requirement and have already been assigned a supervisor, please contact aroof@billingsclinic.org. We can collaborate with your school to provide you the education and clinical experience you need. Please contact us as soon as possible so we can make arrangements with your school.
