Guest columnist Chuck Behrens is spiritual care coordinator for Hospice of the Western Reserve.

When people hear the word “chaplain,” many think of formal prayer or religious rituals.

Some assume spiritual care applies only to people with strong faith traditions. Others worry they’ll be pressured to engage in beliefs they don’t hold.

These common assumptions overlook what spiritual care provides: compassionate, judgment-free human connection.

Spiritual care meets people where they are. That might include prayer or scripture. Other times, it’s a quiet moment, a conversation about legacy, a comforting song or simply sitting in silence.

The focus is not religion -- it’s meaning, dignity and support.

At Hospice of the Western Reserve, spiritual care is available to every patient and fami

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