Standing ready to serve a veterans' spiritual needs | va southern arizona health care | veterans affairs

Amidst one of the most sacred religious times of year with Easter, Passover and Ramadan, Southern Arizona Health Care System (SVAHCS) shines a light on the work their Chaplains do for

Veterans. A Chaplain’s role “is to ensure that U.S. Veterans have access to spiritual and religious care as part of their patient care services,” according to VA.gov. “This commitment

extends to Veterans’ family members as well.” SAVAHCS Chaplains serve people of all faith traditions and families looking for support. They are here to listen and offer spiritual and

emotional support to those struggling with tough questions and ethical decisions. “One great thing about a Chaplain is that they can minister to Veterans regardless of faith traditions to

provide necessary spiritual care,” said Troy Parson, SAVAHCS Supervisory Chaplain. “We sponsor multi-faith practices to enhance Veterans spiritual wellness, like prayers, practices and

rites, and collegial relationships with clergy to provide specific needs.” Wehonorvets.org describes how a Chaplain “ensures every patient’s constitutional right to free exercise of religion

[and] protects all Veterans from proselytization (the imposition of religious beliefs or activities).” To accomplish this, they fill many roles— as a comforter, supporter, leader, advocate,

counselor, mediator, and educator. “Many don’t realize that Chaplains are available for both happy and difficult times,” said Parson. “We strive to be Veteran-oriented by focusing on their

needs.” Because spiritual health is a crucial component of a Veteran’s whole health, SAVAHCS provides several spaces for reflection and spiritual comfort. Besides the chapel, which is

reserved for larger services or events, there are two other spaces available 24/7. There is a Meditation room located in building two of the medical center and another room located near the

hospice wing. There’s a semi-private family gather area nearby, too. According to Parson, these critical spaces serve as spiritual respite areas.  Like all others throughout VA, SAVAHCS

Chaplains hold, at least, a Master of Divinity degree or equivalent, have completed at least four accredited units of Clinical Pastoral Education, be recognized as board-certified, are

registered with Selective Service, or have a valid exemption, and speak English. The spiritual care Chaplains offer, regardless of faith tradition, provides concrete health benefits research

shows. When chaplains are involved in a Veterans health care leave the hospital sooner and better manage their pain and stress.