Spiritual Care is an integral part of health care at Thompson Health. We understand that healing and wholeness are a matter of the mind, body and spirit working together.

In our commitment to serve the needs of the whole person, we define spirituality in the broadest and most universal terms possible: that which gives meaning or purpose and belonging or connection to each person.  In this light, we seek to support each of our patients, residents, clients and their loved ones in a way that is meaningful and helpful to him or her.

Pastoral Care
Pastors, and other spiritual advisors throughout our health service region, regularly visit patients and residents at Thompson Health.  If you wish, the spiritual leader of your congregation will be informed of your admission to the hospital or the M.M. Ewing Continuing Care Center.

Religious Services
The M.M. Ewing Continuing Care Center offers its residents and loved ones several opportunities for worship and spiritual growth.  Among these are services of worship, distribution of communion and Bible study.  Bible study and services of worship are available at our Brighter Day Medical Adult Program and Ferris Hills at West Lake, our senior community.

Prayer Before Surgery
Prayer request cards are available at the Pre-Admission Testing Department for surgery patients.  This card indicates that a patient would like members of the surgical team to pray with them before surgery.

The Chapel
The interfaith chapel is next to the hospital's main lobby. The chapel, open day and night for anyone who wishes to use it, offers a place for meditation and reflection.

Director of Spiritual Care

Thompson Health employs a full time Director of Spiritual Care, Mark Henson. Henson, who has a Master’s of Divinity and a Master’s in Social Gerontology, has extensive experience in trauma, palliative care, advance directives and eye/tissue donation.  Chaplain Henson is available to visit, counsel and pray with patients, residents, clients and their loved ones.

In addition, Chaplain Henson serves the spiritual needs of our Associates and volunteers so that they may be better equipped to address the spiritual needs of the people they serve. He also is available to work with, or speak to, religious and community organizations.  He can be reached at (585) 396-6486, by e-mail at Mark.Henson@thompsonhealth.com, or you may forward your request to meet with him through any Associate.

Volunteer Opportunities
We also provide the opportunity for volunteers to deliver spiritual care to patients and residents at Thompson Health through the Chaplain’s Volunteer Program.  For more information on volunteering at Thompson - go to our Volunteer Page or contact the Chaplain’s Office at (585) 396-6486 or the Volunteer Office at (585) 396-6660.