What To Do For Those Who Are Hurting When You Don’t Know What To Do

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As the holidays approach more people than usual are looking for ways to reach out to help a hurting friend. Sadly, this shouldn't be a seasonal event, but something we do all year round. But most people just don't know how to do that reaching out! Well, thanks to a wonderful book we don't have that excuse any longer! One of my all-time favorite books is The Art of Helping: What to Say and Do When Someone is Hurting by Lauren Littauer Briggs. In fact, I am very honored to have a section in it for those with chronic illness. But the whole book is helpful for those of us who, well, care. And it is one of the few books I believe should be on the desk of every pastor and church secretary! So much so that when it was first published we … [Read more...]

Assisted Suicide Due to Pain of Illness and How It Fits With Our Belief in God

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Lisa Copen The facts are frightening. According to American Medical news 51 people died under Washington's assisted-suicide law in 2010, the 1st full year of this law. They were provided with a lethal medication prescribed by a physician. As one who lives with a chronic illness and daily chronic pain, I understand how difficult it can be to get up and face each day when every part of your body aches and no one seems to have any answers. I also am wise enough to know that I have not experienced the kind of darkness that many have. . . yet. I have no doubt that just as many Christians go through "a dark night of the soul" as the darkest depression is described, those with illness surely have some days when they awake and wonder if it … [Read more...]

The Museum Of disABILITY Is An Interesting Place to Visit

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Daniel J. Vance I recently happened upon a delightful surprise. While planning for a family vacation, I learned of an interesting tourist attraction: The Museum of disABILITY History in Buffalo, New York. "The museum is the result of the desire of Dr. James M. Boles," said 51-year-old Doug Platt, museum curator, in a telephone interview. "Boles was teaching an introduction to developmental disabilities course at University of Buffalo and wanted to direct his students to a website for a comprehensive look at how people with disabilities have been treated throughout the ages. There wasn't one. That's how the museum was born, in 1998." Boles also was president/CEO of People Inc., a New York nonprofit providing employment, residential, … [Read more...]

What Do Patients Really Want From Their Doctors?

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A recent study has proven what we-as patients-want, and it won't come as any surprise: more communication! 90% of patients said they want their doctors to listen to them; only 25% wanted a prescription, and 60% wanted an examination (Southampton University in UK). Previous research from the University of Connecticut has shown that the effectiveness of drugs depends largely on the relationship and amount of time doctors spend with the patient. The longer the consultation, the more effective the medications. We asked some of you what you want and the answers may leave you nodding in agreement more than surprise. That he have more time to spend with me to thoroughly answer my questions. When he's rushed I feel pressured and afraid to … [Read more...]

Chaplain Links and Publications

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Other Chaplaincy Links of Interest American Association of Pastoral Counselors AAPC is evolving into a more diverse professional organization serving within an increasingly complex world. Our members now represent a broader spectrum of theological and spiritual traditions and work among a wide variety of health care providers and settings. American College of Physicians Home Care Guide for Advanced Cancer An excellent resource for chaplaincy caregiving for those undergoing cancer treatments, through all the processes from grieving, to symptoms of treatments, respite, death, etc. Great resources for the chaplain to utilize to be there for the entire family. COMISS Network: The Network on Ministry in Specialized Settings A network … [Read more...]

Specialized Chaplaincy Organizations

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Specialized Chaplaincy Organizations Corporate Chaplains of America (CCA) The organization employs full time, long term, career chaplains who combine workplace experience with professional chaplaincy training. In addition to holding seminary level or higher degrees, all chaplains will pursue certification through 154 hours of continuing education within the first year of tenure. Federation of Fire Chaplains The purpose of this organization is to bring together individuals and groups who are interested in providing effective chaplaincies for fire service organizations. Its members exchange and share ideas and concerns that influence the quality of life of all members of the fire service and their families. International Conference of … [Read more...]

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