The role of a hospital chaplain
Hospital chaplains serve as spiritual care providers who offer far more than traditional religious services—they act as compassionate listeners, emotional supporters, and bridges between families and medical teams during some of life's most challenging moments. Whether your family is deeply religious, spiritual but not religious or holds no particular faith tradition, chaplains are trained to meet you where you are, providing comfort through presence, helping navigate difficult conversations about illness and treatment, and creating moments that bring meaning and hope.
To further explain what a chaplain does, chaplaincy resident Josh Rockett shares a rhyming story about Chaplain Moe through the eyes of a young patient named Jo.
A story about how Chaplain Moe helps young Jo in the hospital
In the big hospital where children stay, there's a special friend who brightens your day.
Like a gentle candle with flame so true, the hospital chaplain brings light to you.
"What's a chaplain?" asked Jo in their hospital bed, "Do I need to know prayers?" they quietly said.
"Oh no!" smiled Chaplain Moe, with arms open wide, "I'm here for everyone, right by your side!
Just like a candle that glows and shines, I’m here for you through all kinds of times.
Some kids like to pray, some kids like to play, some believe in God, others find their own way.
But my gentle flame is for every child, whether quiet or loud, gentle or wild.
When you're feeling scared and worried inside, I'll share my calm glow to help you feel bright.
When you're feeling lonely or need someone near, the steady light of my presence will always be here.
When you're happy, I'll flicker and dance with you, and when you're sad, I'll sit and listen too.
When you're feeling worried about getting well, I’ll hear every story you need to tell.
My light is warm and my care is wide, I'm a peaceful place where your feelings reside.
No matter what makes you feel just right, I'll help you feel comfort with my gentle light."
"So you're like a candle, a light, that’s also my friend?" Jo giggled as their worries began to mend.
"Yes! I'm your gentle light, warm and bright, my glow will help you through day and night."
And that's why hospital chaplains are here, to listen closely with a caring ear.
Moe’s story illustrates that healing encompasses far more than medical treatment alone. It shows how chaplains validate each child's unique spirit, fears and hopes. Whether through storytelling, quiet presence, celebratory moments or simply holding space for tears, chaplains offer compassionate care beyond religious boundaries. Because all children and their families deserve to feel spiritually supported during their healing journey.