Incarnational transformation in palliative care: Equipping hospice chaplains to impact patients, families, caregivers, and staff through the ministry of presence

Hospice chaplains are critically important people of God, reaching out to dying patients and their families, who are facing unique challenges while dealing with the crises of death. An effective theological foundation and a solid understanding of the reality that constitutes providing spiritual care greatly aided these chaplains to benefit from the serious reflection on both the increased knowledge of the world of hospice care and the role of the spiritual counselors that this project advocated. This foundation enabled them to build on the benefits and overcome the frustrating challenges many face each day.;This project developed online courses to equip hospice chaplains for ministry. Fifty-eight prospective and seasoned chaplains participated in the online courses through the training websites. It also included conducting interviews with thirteen experienced psychosocial and spiritual care providers in hospice care. The online training emphasized the world of hospice and palliative care by introducing aspiring chaplains to the spiritual care of the dying and their families in this unique healthcare environment.;Findings from composite test scores and program evaluation surveys revealed course effectiveness. This feedback also allowed participants to make immediate applications in the care of their patients, families, caregivers, and other staff. Each evaluation instrument showed that participants experienced a significant increase in the retention of the content. Provision of resource materials and immediate application of the concepts to real-life situations enhanced this retention for many participants.