Chaplains: Deep Breaths in the Trauma Room

Sacred Moments in a Virginia Hospital

JoAnn and Tim Cockey tell us how their son, Luke, ended up in the emergency room of Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center in Richmond nine years ago. And we tag along with Stephanie Hamilton (pictured), a chaplain who was on hand that day and continues to shepherd families through their darkest moments. Our guest, Stephanie Hamilton is faculty chaplain liason for surgery/trauma/neuro at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center.

Dollars and Cents and Spiritual Care

The statistician W. Edwards Deming famously said, “In God we trust, all others must bring data.” For our two guests, reliable data about the impact of spiritual counseling in healthcare settings is a kind of holy grail. How do you measure the value of a compassionate and calm presence in the midst of illness and loss?  We speak with Dr. Deborah Marin, psychiatry professor and director at the Center for Spirituality and Health at Mt. Sinai and George Fitchett, professor and director of research at the Department of Religion, Health and Human Values at Ruth University Medical Center. 

Spiritual Care Between Boarding Gates

Until he retired in 2013, Chaplain Ralph Benson roamed the crowded hallways of Dulles International Airport, counseling up to 12 people a day. His sacred meeting places? The closest Chipotle or Five Guys.  Ralph Benson is a former airport chaplain, current pastor at Brentsville Presbyterian Church in Virginia.

Commentary:  Amber on Ramadan Traditions

Ramadan is the holy month on the Islamic lunar calendar during which Muslims are encouraged to reflect and renew their faith committments by observing 30 days of fasting from food, water and certain activities during day light hours.  It is also a time that is known for family meals, community gatherings and increasing charitible acts. Our host Amber Khan reflects on how the first 15 days of Ramadan took on a special meaning this year when her mom became seriously ill, and how she is trying to carry forward those treasured family traditions with her kids.


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