Griffin, along with other members of the CTCA® Pastoral Care programs, are focused on creating a safe space for open communication where those living with cancer can talk through and affirm their feelings about the disease, discuss their fears, and learn how to lean on their spirituality throughout their cancer journey. To meet the needs of the whole person, Pastoral Care is built in as a core function of the broader clinical care team at CTCA. And in order to provide support for every person in need, pastoral services are offered immediately to anyone seeking them. While the pastoral program is rooted in the Christian faith, the team also works to connect non-Christian patients to local priests, rabbis, imams or other spiritual leaders.
To provide additional support, Pastoral Care also offers a Forgiveness Class for patients who struggle with forgiving themselves, others, or at times – God. This group is designed to help those with cancer explore the healing powers of forgiveness and overcome past issues. “Forgiveness of oneself or others can be a difficult process, but the peace and closure that accompany forgiveness can be an important part of the spiritual and emotional healing process and allow the person to focus on physically getting well,” says Griffin.
For African Americans Faith Is An Essential Part Of Cancer Care was originally published on blackdoctor.org
