Spiritual Care Providers as Full Partners in Whole-System Interventions

In this commentary, I reflect on 12 stories from individuals who have had a near-death experience, and I describe how the ministry of the spiritual caregiver can aide patients who experience a near-death phenomenon. Spiritual care providers are trained to support patients and family members and promote a sense of peace and comfort. They offer affirmation while promoting a space for wondering. Spiritual health is an essential component of a whole-body system. The experiences of the 12 authors have much in common, but perhaps most surprising is the omission of any clergy or chaplains being called on despite many of the authors disclosing their NDE to physicians and nurses.