Chaplain and Religious Services

About the Program

A chaplain is available to assist patients and their family members through all phases of outpatient treatment, hospital stays, and extended care.

VA chaplains are clinical pastoral care specialists, fully integrated into the health care team and trained to provide counseling and support to persons of all faiths (as well as non-religious people). The journey through illness can call into question the very purpose and meaning of life, whether one is laboring through an extended recovery process, or negotiating the last days of life.

A growing body of research indicates that patients who are spiritually active experience faster healing, better coping with disability, diminished pain, and overall report a better quality of life. The chaplain will inquire about special cultural, grief or religious needs and if desired, will help the patient access community clergy or spiritual care providers.

Services Offered

The VA chaplains can provide communion, funerals, baptisms, weddings and other services when special needs arise. Bereavement Care resources are offered for veterans and their families. The Interfaith Chapel is open 24-hours a day for prayer or meditation, and Worship Services are offered weekly.