Rev. Jim Stephens on chaplaincy in Alaska

Impressions of My Work as a Chaplain

I have been blessed to be able to work and support my family in a profession that has allowed me to do what I love, listen to peoples stories.

When I began my work as a chaplain over 21 years ago, I was the only Protestant in a department that had three Jesuit priests and four Sisters; two were Sisters of Providence while the other two were a Carmelite and St. Joseph of Peace. I was on a fast learning curve, as I had not had much exposure to the Catholic faith. But how I have come to love and treasure my friendships with them all. But then I was here because of the Catholic faith for they were the sponsors of the Catholic hospital where I was privileged to work.

My first years of work were simple. Having an assigned area, I was to visit as many patients as I was able, focusing on the new ones, and the ones hospitalized the longest. The work was focused on the patients alone, but even then I found myself being asked to celebrate with staff in major events of their lives, weddings, blessings and an occasional Baptism.

In the later years my work has broadened into more disciplinary focus, being part of the development of Pathways for Open Heart Surgery, CHF, and alternative pain management options. It has been my privilege to teach several classes to nurses on issues ranging from the dying process to conflict resolution and dealing with stress in the work place. My most recent involvement has been with the development of electronic charting for our hospital, and being an advocate for spiritual care throughout the process. This has spanned a period of over a year-and-a-half working with a great team in designing the electronic record. I will retire before it is rolled out, but I know that my presence and influence will be a lasting one, and I am blessed to have been here.

But the stories of the patients have been my greatest love. Just recently I was visiting a little native lady from one of the villages in Northern Alaska. She made a lasting impression on me when she said that her father was the face on the Alaska Airlines jets that are so well known to people in Alaska, and to people who live in the destinations now served by the airlines. She was so proud of him, and pleased that he had unlimited flight privileges as a royalty. What an opportunity to share in her story.

Our department has grown. It had been a desire of mine to see a CPE program established in Alaska. Finally that has come about with a program that has had two summer units, two extended units and now a residency program, which is to start soon after I leave. This has been an answer to my prayers, and so I can leave in peace knowing that professional chaplaincy is doing well in Alaska.

Do you have thoughts about spiritual development you’d like to share with your colleagues? Send an e-mail of any length to info@PlainViews.org.