Food for the Soul

Samaritan House chaplain program appeals to residents’ spiritual side

One only has to read a few Samaritan House success stories to realize how important spiritual care and faith are to many residents. Some face the challenge of HIV with gratitude, seeking a second chance for success and renewal. Others fall into crisis, searching for a beacon of hope amid the darkness.

The Samaritan House chaplain program seeks to support these needs within the house, offering nondenominational counseling, spiritual direction, and an ecumenical chapel on-site for fellowship and meditation. Tammy Wynn, outgoing chaplain, sees her time with the residents as offering her a unique window into their lives.

“So often when a person of the cloth sits with someone and listens to their story,” she says, “somehow they feel that the Divine has heard them and cares for them. I felt privileged to get the opportunity to hear their private, personal stories of isolation, loneliness and years of abuse and desperation that many of them suffered at the hands of others.”

Wynn participated as a chaplain-intern at Samaritan House as part of her graduation requirements from Brite Divinity School, and in preparation for her ordination into ministry. Wynn has been honored to assist with pastoral care and spiritual direction, and she has been inspired by the staff that has worked alongside her. “The staff is dedicated to the residents and to educating the world regarding HIV/AIDS,” says Wynn. “They are some of the most passionate, compassionate people I have ever had the opportunity to work with.”

Cheryl Finch will pick up as the incoming chaplain where Wynn leaves off. Finch is entering her final year of seminary, and will seek ordination through the Presbyterian Church. Her wish of compassion and support for Samaritan House residents echoes Wynn’s efforts.

“I hope (I can) show a population who has been judged, discounted and often discarded by society and ‘the Church’ in general that God loves them and has not abandoned them,” she says, “and that there are people who care what happens to them.”

While her personal background is in the Christian church, Finch addresses diverse beliefs simply by being open and respectful of other religious traditions and beliefs, while also being true to who she is. She sees her role as centrally responsible for pastoral care more than counseling, especially considering the number of professional counselors already available to residents. “My role is to show care, support and concern for the residents as they grapple with issues in their lives, and how it all connects to their spiritual lives,” she says.

For more information about Samaritan House’s supportive services, including the chaplain program, click here.

 

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