NEW INTERFAITH CENTER OFFERS SPIRITUAL HEALING, COMFORT

Every year, hospitals invest in services and programs that provide physical treatment for patients. However, studies have shown that spiritual healing is as important as physical healing when it comes to treating patients.

In order to meet the spiritual needs of its patients, Clark Memorial Hospital recently opened its new Interfaith Centre. The Centre was the result of three years of extensive research and a generous donation from Elmer and Frances Hoehn.
                

“My vision for the Centre was a place which celebrates people living, working, and socializing together,” says Hoehn. “It is in a hospital where life and death hangs in the balance, and where families, friends, and loved ones seek heavenly help and support.”

The Interfaith Centre incorporates all the major faiths of the world, including Bahai, Buddhism, Christianity, Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam, Jainism, Judaism, Native American Spirituality, Shintoism, Sikhism, Taoism, and Zoroastrianism. Visitors of all races and creeds can come together and be comforted.

The Center was designed by the Schickel Design Company of Cincinnati, which specializes in creating spiritual and religious spaces, and was built by Woodbine Construction.

Tim Jarm, chief executive officer of Clark Memorial Hospital, says that Hoehn’s vision for the Centre fits into the hospital’s mission to provide superior health care services to its people and community.

“The full range of human experience happens in a hospital, from the joys of birth and healing, to the trials of illness and death,” says Jarm. “We have redefined and refocused our role as health care givers, understanding that healing begins with the whole person.”

More than 60 people attended the opening of the Centre in December. During the open house, a dedication ceremony was conducted by Father Cliff Vogelsang, St Augustine's Church; Rev. Ken Vogler, Faith Lutheran Church; Dr. G.A. Shareef; Janardan Aylse; Ernie Marx; and Judy Watt.

The space incorporates music, natural materials, sculpture, and stained glass to provide a comforting, tranquil space. Colleen Byrne, Clark Memorial Hospital’s chaplain, anticipates the hospital’s team members will utilize the space as much as the hospital’s patients and visitors.

“It will serve as a refuge from the chaos and stress that go on in a hospital and provide a place for meditation, reflection, and prayer,” says Byrne.

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