Spiritual Care Volunteering

Spiritual care volunteers provide companionship, prayer, spiritual assessment or just a listening ear for patients and caregivers in MD Anderson's outpatient clinics. These volunteers are specially trained to be sensitive to all faiths and beliefs through the use of inclusive religious language and referrals to various faith communities. The outpatient areas covered by spiritual care volunteers include main clinics, treatment and diagnostic areas,surgery (pre-op waiting and recovery rooms) and waiting rooms.

Spiritual care volunteers should be able to:

• Convey genuine interest in and care for patient and family
• Meet individuals at their point of need in the here and now
• Make a brief spiritual assessment and referral as necessary
• Listen respectfully to the story and the underlying feelings

Previous spiritual care experience, training through Stephen Ministry or the Community of Hope is helpful, but not required. Volunteers must attend a 2.5 hour orientation provided by Volunteer Services, which includes filling out an application and undergoing a criminal background check. To apply, call 713-792-JOIN.

For all other questions please contact the Spiritual Care and Education Office at 713-792 7184.