Dr. John Grebe, Director of Petoskey Behavioral Health “As a psychologist, I have always supported the idea of chaplaincy. However, it wasn’t until my father lay close to death following a recent surgery that I came to fully appreciate the vital role they play in providing care. I recall a particular point in the intensive care unit when the Chaplain tended to my family’s needs. So helpless to change events ourselves, we were adrift in the realization of pending loss when the Chaplain came to listen. The time, prayers, and caring that was offered buoyed us through the worst. Even as our fear eased with my father’s recovery, the Chaplain continued to be vigilant on our behalf. Later, with my spirits lifting, I once again saw the Chaplain, though this time beyond our situation, again communicating the love and care of the divine to another shocked family as life’s tug of war with death was being played out in its next chapter. Chaplains are dedicated colleagues standing in the gap, holding with/onto us in that time when our own strength is inadequate to sustain. God Bless them and their extraordinary ministry. We are fortunate to have them.”
— A Patient’s Son
“We have been trying to figure out how we could best say “THANK YOU” for your care a couple weeks ago. You were there for us right away; calmed my fears, prayed with us and let the family hang out in your office during my surgery. We think we can thank you in part by saying…
When someone stands with you, it gives you a song. When someone walks with you it makes you strong. How can we thank you? I know not where to start. The words we most want to say are difficult to find sometimes as the journey begins far, far away in the heart. Sometimes we wish you could hear the “Thank You’s” in our hearts.
When we think of you, our hearts overflow with gratitude.”
— A Patient and Spouse
“A very heartfelt thank you for spending so much time with our daughter while she was in ICU. Not having you there would have added to our grief and pain. Thank you for knowing what our family was going through and understanding how to help.”
— Parents of ICU patient
Not only were the Chaplains there for the patient’s family, but also for me – thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
— RN
“You were there for me, whether I had a quick question or needed to talk for hours.”
— A Patient
“I want to tell you how much I appreciated your presence, concern, and prayers for me. I am convinced that I was given the “extra measure of grace” that you prayed over me.”
— A Patient
“Your presence in my life at that time gave me the strength to walk into ICU everyday, to talk to my Dad even though he was not conscious and to move through his trials by his side; holding that strength for him when he could not. Holding that strength for my Mother when she could not. I found acceptance made a difference, created a natural path, after all that’s life, right? I heard you that day. I heard your words, your sincerity, compassion and kindness. You set the tone…I was listening.” (Click this link to read the complete letter)
— A Patient’s Daughter
“Northern Chaplain Services brought such comfort during our darkest hour. It was such a relief to have the heartfelt support and grace they provided to my husband and family when we all needed it the most. It is such a blessing to know that they are there to help bring solace and guidance through their spiritual strength.”
— A Bereaved Spouse
“It seemed as though you arrived just when you were needed, to give us a boost with a kind word or a smile.”
— A Patient’s family
“Thanks for being the kind of person who makes such a big difference. You helped us so much, both by your presence and your message!”
— A Bereaved Spouse
“I can’t even tell you how glad I am that you were working yesterday. I don’t know how you find the strength to do your job, but you are a tremendous asset to this hospital.”
— A Patient’s friend
“This ministry is sacred work. We enter into the life of patients with gentleness and respect. We step into the breach and stand with people of different faiths, understandings, and backgrounds in a variety of situations. We reach out to them with God’s love and comfort and do our best to meet their needs, sometimes under very difficult circumstances. It is an honor and a privilege to serve in this way.” – Northern Chaplain Services
