They say that in the second half of life people begin to look inward, not outward, for meaning.
The Rev. John Taylor finds that the number of people requesting spiritual support is increasing. He meets them in his work as Coordinating Chaplain for the Rouge Valley Health System, in Toronto. The Rouge Valley Health System is one of the most diverse multi-faith, multi-cultural health care facilities in Canada with over 500 patient beds.
When older people are hospitalized, and particularly during end-stage illness, they ponder the meaning of their life and of dying, and they seek peace, observes Taylor.
In the midst of anxious moments, the hospital chaplain is a companion for both patients and their families, offering emotional and spiritual support. The chaplain provides a listening ear and an understanding and accepting presence – a friend in anxious moments.
Mission and Service provides the support needed for two pastoral care assistants at the Rouge Valley Chaplaincy. This ministry is a reality thanks to the generosity of Mission and Service donors. Thanks to you gifts, this ministry is a blessing for those in hospital.
Faithful, inclusive, just, compassionate, serving, tolerant.
These are some of the words that United Church people use to describe The United Church of Canada. Together they illustrate our United Church values, and a United Vision. They are the powerful values that we support with the Mission and Service Fund. Through M&S-funded work, the world sees in us the hands and face of Jesus in places where we cannot go as individuals or even as a congregation.
It’s a United Fund for a United Vision.
When you give to a United Church special emergency appeal such as the 2004 tsunami appeal or the 2010 Haitian earthquake appeal, 100 percent of the funds goes to helping people who are facing emergencies. Nothing is held back for administration. Together we make a difference. Join the partnership.
Mission and Service –
Together we make a difference!
Revised:
March 16, 2012
