Because of the brevity of today’s hospitalizations, pastoral caregivers have a narrow window of time in which to make an in-patient visit. Hospitalization is a crisis, both to the patient and to the family — a crisis that extends far beyond the person with the medical problems. To cope with the situation, everyone involved will need to draw on resources he or she doesn’t ordinarily use. The patient and family may need your help in defining and implementing the use of these resources.
Many of those you minister to in this setting will be experiencing this trauma for the first time. They may be blindsided by things that are not directly related to their physical problem — for example, assault to their modesty and dignity, depression over the losses they are experiencing, loneliness, fears, and even anger.
People who are hospitalized may have lots of visitors, but no one to talk to about their concerns and feelings. The presence of one who cares and understands some of what they are experiencing, and who really listens, can be very comforting and encouraging.
One of the most important things you can do is help patients deal with their feelings about the illness, such as anger (“Why did God allow this to happen to me?”) or fear (“What will happen to my kids if I am not around for them?”). This may require you to deal with strong feelings and to be open to a patient telling you his or her story. You may also need to be comfortable sitting in silence with someone who needs to have you there but may not want conversation.
God calls us to minister to the sick; let us do so with His guidance and His sensitivity.