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Hospice chaplains provide spiritual comfort to patients, families

Bruce Matlock

There are four chaplains serving Hospice and Palliative Care of Iredell County. From left: Revs. Delores Stillman, Tom Corbell, Randy Berryhill, Lynn Kunkle.

By Chyna Broadnax | Statesville R&L

Published: October 29, 2009

The four chaplains at Hospice and Palliative Care of Iredell County have the unique role of assisting patients, families and even staff members with their spiritual needs.

Whether it's by lending a listening ear or, as Chaplain Delores Spielman says, honoring the "spiritual aspect," the chaplains play an integral role in the Hospice experience.

"Folks nearing end of life yearn to have somebody listen," Spielman said. "We're somebody they can confide in."

Spielman said providing spiritual guidance and support to both Hospice patients and their families isn't as much of an emotional burden as it is a positive opportunity to guide people spiritually.

"I consider this job a privilege and a calling," she said.

Spielman, along with fellow Revs. Tom Corbell, Randy Berryhill and Lynn Kunkle, provide their services at the request of the families, whether they include helping with the grieving process, being at the bedside of someone who is dying or praying with families.

"It's a journey for (the families)," Kunkle said. "Our role is not to lead them but we walk at the side of
them."

Kunkle, who works with Hospice and Palliative Care of Iredell County, Gordon Hospice House and Rainbow Kidz, said she shares scriptures with the families she serves.

She said they provide "that comforting presence and prayer."

The chaplains say they are not bound by any faith or denomination, and will serve families regardless of their religion.

Corbell is the newest chaplain to join the team, but by no stretch of the imagination is he new to providing spiritual comfort.

Corbell came to Hospice two years ago after more than 30 years in ministry.

"The level of blessings I've experienced in two years I've been here, I can't even describe it," he said.