Browsing by Author "Atherstone, Devin"

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Pastoral Care in a Clinical Setting: The Role Hospital Chaplaincy Plays as Part of a Broader Medical Team
(South African Theological Seminary Johannesburg, South Africa) Atherstone, Devin; Jabini, Franklin
The research discusses the manner in how hospital chaplains can form part of a broader medical team, in two medical institutes in Somerset West, Western Cape. A total of 120 patient questionnaires were completed in both government and private sectors. The questions targeted all aspects of the hospital stay, emotional and spiritual facets. A medical staff questionnaire was designed to discover the mindset of the medical professional regarding the need for spiritual care in hospitals. This information laid the foundation as to the philosophy of hospitals towards chaplain ministry. A detailed analysis of the professional chaplain was researched. This demonstrated the competency levels of qualified chaplains and the value that they offer patients and staff alike. Through recent research, evidence was presented to substantiate the need for a soul care professional as medical staff often negates (for obvious reasons) the emotional and spiritual needs of patients. A biblical exploration was undertook, seeking to identify what pastoral care is. Biblical images and motivation for effective scriptural counsel was examined to determine guidelines and principles for hospital visitation. Further recommendation was made as to explore the crucial role that the local church plays regarding the necessity of visiting the ill.