Vail Health’s Spiritual Services: Compassion Without Boundaries

This article first appeared in the 2024 Annual Update >

Spiritual Services in Action

For those receiving care in a hospital setting, the journey can be marked by hope, healing, uncertainty, and moments of challenge. Regardless of religious orientation, Vail Health’s chaplains offer spiritual services that can provide patients, families, and staff with compassionate support during trauma, stress, and crisis. The chaplains’ office and the Frechette Chapel, both open since 2023, are conveniently located next to each other on Vail Health Hospital’s second floor. 

Integrated, Interfaith Care

Every patient and their family face unique challenges, and Vail Health’s chaplains tailor their approach to each individual’s needs. As interfaith spiritual care providers, they welcome and support people of all faiths, those who don’t identify with any religion, and those exploring their spiritual journey.  

The chaplains’ work is integrated across Vail Health and available for patients at Shaw Cancer Center and those in the Shaw at Home palliative care program, outpatients receiving behavioral health services, and Precourt Healing Center staff and patients beginning in May 2025.  

Through regular presence in the Patient Care Unit and Intensive Care Unit at Vail Health Hospital, chaplains engage with patients and families, ensuring they are available to all—not just those who specifically request their services. 

Fostering Connection Among Staff and Community

Chaplains are equally committed to Vail Health staff, offering support at all campuses and conducting bimonthly visits. They also publish Daily Reflections; a short article distributed to over 200 staff members. The goal is to foster a sense of connection and inspiration. Additionally, chaplains contribute to various internal committees and initiatives, including the Ethics Committee, Trauma Committee, Zero Suicide Task Force, Wellbeing Committee, Committee on Cancer, Eagle Valley Behavioral Health Advisory Committee, and the Safety Huddle.  

Within the community, Vail Health chaplains engage through a variety of programs and initiatives, including local spiritual and faith-leader networks and the annual community faith-leader conference.  

Thanks to the generosity of benefactors, the Vail Health chaplain team will soon expand. In the meantime, the chaplains remain committed to meeting the spiritual and emotional needs of patients, families, and staff, ensuring no one feels alone on their journey.