By Martin Abrams MBE, Hospital Chaplain & Spiritual Care and Chaplaincy Manager
Reading: Hebrews 6 v. 19 – 20
‘We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain.’
Notes:
As hospital chaplains we see a lot of curtains and a lot of lights.
Within our trust there are over 1500 beds. Those in shared bays each have curtains, defining personal space and maintaining a modicum of dignity. Behind each curtain there is a story, individual to that patient and all those important to them. Their story may include hope, fear, uncertainty, anxiety, strong or challenged faith, doubts and frustration. These expressions and responses are individual and just the tip of the iceberg.
A significant part of the chaplaincy role is to walk into these situations, often at a few minutes notice, and meet people for the first time. Often those we meet are in great distress as they process terrible, and sometimes seemingly impossible, news. For many this will be the darkest moment of their life. If this encounter is in the middle of the night, we will often enter the hospital through the lights, beeps and controlled chaos of A&E, before proceeding down dark corridors.
As we walk our presence activates sensors, and dark corridors become bright, almost too bright as our sleepy eyes adjust. This is almost a parable as to what is expected of us as we step behind a curtain. With kind and hopeful words, a calming presence, appropriate readings and prayers and above all, the hope of faith in the one “who (on our behalf) entered the inner sanctuary behind the curtain,” we are privileged to offer light, and the Life-Light of Hope. Sometimes we witness distress calmed and a measure of peace found.
Pope Francis, not long before his death, is reported to have said: “The walls of hospitals have heard more honest prayers than churches” (Pope Francis reflecting from hospital: (not written by Pope Francis) – Association Of Catholic Priests)
For Reflection and Prayer:
Perhaps think about the most authentic, heartfelt prayers you have offered yourself or heard others offer. Think about how these have challenged or strengthened your faith. Let this be a prompt for prayer. Remember also those whose stories are behind curtains, and those whose life story has been suddenly and dramatically changed.