“RENEWING THE EMOTIONAL AND SPIRITUAL JOY IN PROFESSIONAL CAREGIVING” ~CREATING A CULTURE OF COMPASSION~

Affidavit of Purpose

Healing is much more than physical diagnosis and treatment, it is about honoring the patient's very presence, their being, their connection with another person.  It is that caring moment that actually can be a critical turning point in the life of the caregiver and their patient.

Healing is a spiritual practice, it is the touching of the body, mind, heart and soul.

Every individual who chooses a call to healing is a person who carries a great heart and generosity of spirit.  Professional caregiving is the work of the soul.  So how do these healthcare professionals renew themselves? What sustains them, what regenerates them, what heals them?

Many healthcare professionals note that their own spirituality supports them in finding meaning in their profession.  Due to the current stresses in the healthcare system, caregivers find it a challenge to tap into their own spirituality.

Care providers who learn more about the spiritual lives of their patients find they are able to provide more personalized care while, at the same time, nurturing their own spiritual awareness and growth.

CONFERENCE OBJECTIVES
TO PROVIDE THE CAREGIVER WITH TOOLS TO:

• Support the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of their patients
• Address spiritual values and beliefs of their patients
• Understand the importance of nurturing one's own spiritual awareness and growth
• Form collaborative partnerships with clergy, physicians, nurses, social workers and other care providers to create a 'patient-centered' culture.
• To provide a compassionate presence to the “Whole Person”
• Support patients in their exploration of deep personal and spiritual questions