Unfortunately, some traditional religions still cling to the last vestiges of the belief that physical illness is God’s punishment for those who have sinned, even though few religious leaders actually come out and openly express that sentiment. However, it’s still deeply engrained in our society and can often be glimpsed in the way that some communities treat those who have contracted diseases such as HIV. At the Universal Life Church, we believe that ministering to the ill in a positive and nonjudgmental fashion is a significant part of the commitment that we all made when we decided to become ordained. Looking after others with compassion will create a depth in your spiritual calling that you may not have been able to even imagine before.
It is important for community members and those who minister to the ill to realize that sick people have abundant lessons to teach the rest of us about life and love. Many people report that their first experience at glimpsing the real meaning of existence came to them while they were dealing with a sick relative or friend. Ministering to the sick should never be approached with the attitude that you are doing something for them because the chances are very good that they are giving back substantial gifts of wisdom and insight to those around them.
Some members of the Universal Life Church feel particularly called to minister to the ill and are exceptionally good at it. One of the qualities of those offering this spiritual services share is a thorough understanding that the pastoral care that they provide is supplementary to the care provided by a health care professional.
The medical needs of the patient should be understood and respected at all times. For instance, if you are going to be providing sacrament or anointing the patient with oil, you should first check to ensure that the patient has no allergies to oil and is not scheduled to undergo surgery soon. In short, make certain that the individual medical requirements of the patient allow for planned pastoral care. It will also be important that you maintain your own good health; if you should come down with a virus or other contagious condition, stay away from those who are ill until you are completely healed yourself.
Many different aspects to pastoral care exist. For instance, you might provide the sick person with transportation to and from medical appointments, church services and activities or social gatherings. If the person is too ill to be moved, your ministry might involve prayer meetings and simple friendly visits.
Pastoral care of the ill and dying can be one of the most fulfilling parts of your spiritual calling. Many men and women who have become ordained in the Universal Life Church report that they have gained greatly in their own spiritual growth because of the quality and unusual clarity of the wisdom that frequently develops in those who become ill.
If you feel called to minister to people who are in hospitals, it may be necessary for you to have a Dr. of Divinity certificate.