Hospice Chaplains: Presence and Listening at the End of Life

The hospice chaplain is "the symbolic presence of God" by providing listening and presence. The emphasis on spiritual care at the end of life may generate significant interest in going deeper into one's relationship with God/the Holy One. Hospice underscores the very integration of the body, mind, and spirit. Therefore, hospice chaplains are able to be of benefit to the dying individuals and their family members by providing them presence and listening. Listening and presence are the necessary foundations for all hospice chaplains.