Faith communities are called upon to support members of their congregations during times of serious illness and loss. Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton is reaching out to faith communities to strengthen and educate clergy and laity in serving this constituency.

Kim Vesey, RN, CHPN, MS, Vice President of Mission Support with Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton, is leading the Unbroken Circle of Care project, working with faith communities from across the Miami Valley. “By using our expertise to better prepare congregations in supporting their families, we believe we are extending our mission of reducing pain and suffering,” Vesey explains.

Vesey is leading a series of programs that involve members of church communities who develop individualized approaches to addressing the needs of those dying and grieving within their faith community. For some places of worship, specific ceremonies are developed to celebrate and honor the lives of the dying; for others, the development of resources to support caregivers may take priority. For all, it is an expression of compassion and caring for those within the community at a time when it is needed most.