A New Home for Spiritual Support Services

We are quickly approaching the grand opening of our Promise Project’s Louis and Phyllis Friedman Building later this fall. Each new component within the building was carefully designed by teams who considered how to best meet the needs of patients, their loved ones and staff alike. One of the many areas that will receive enhancements as part of the Promise Project is Spiritual Support Services. 

The new chapel in progress

As explained by Reverend Saundra “Sandy” Rector, M.Div., BCC, CCISM, Chaplain and Manager of Spiritual Support Services, these offerings are a critical part of the holistic care provided to our patients and their families, as well as our staff. She and her team of community clergy offer faith-specific as well as non-religious spiritual and emotional support to those who are walking through some of life's challenges, whether they are health-related or a result of issues arising from everyday life. Sandy explains, “We are available from birth, through life, to death to help people attain healing and peace through the hope that we bring.” 

Recognizing that healing goes beyond physical health, we are very grateful that the Friedman Building will feature multiple quiet, calm environments that are conducive to prayer, reflection, and respite. For starters, the relocated Yvonne Kahlert Chapel will be about twice the size of the former chapel to accommodate larger gatherings and services and will incorporate the previous chapel’s original stained glass. To make spiritual support as accessible as possible, the Chapel’s broadcast capabilities will allow individuals to tune in for various services, celebrations, and remembrances virtually.     

In 2018, GBMC opened its kosher pantry to meet the dietary needs of members of the observant Jewish community. A new and enhanced kosher pantry will continue to serve this purpose in the new building. A meditation room and outdoor meditation garden that is accessible from the Chapel will offer additional peaceful spaces for all who wish to use them. 

I would like to thank Sandy and her team for the spiritual and emotional support they provide to all those we serve. I’d also like to recognize Joseph Hart, M.Div., BCC, who recently retired as our Director of Spiritual Support Services, for his pivotal role in shaping our program and imagining the new chapel. 

World Breastfeeding Week 

August 1-7 is World Breastfeeding Week. Follow our social media accounts all week to learn more about our lactation team and get important information about breastfeeding support at GBMC. Remember, GBMC offers a telephone "Warmline" at 443-849-3428 seven days a week, 365 days a year, to help address breastfeeding-related questions. Leave a message, and one of our experts will be happy to return the call.