Mercy Memorial Hospital System's commitment to quality care involves the understanding that it is important to address the spiritual needs of the individual, along with their physical needs. Every effort is made to be sensitive to the diversity of religious and spiritual life of our community, and of our patients.

The department of Pastoral Care has developed over the years from a volunteer staff to a department of many volunteer clergy serving in the "Chaplain of the Day" program, two part-time staff chaplains and a full-time Association of Professional Chaplains (APC) Board Certified Coordinator . We offer spiritual care to our patients, their families, our employees, and support the local clergy and community.

The Pastoral Care staff is currently available weekdays to provide care to all areas of the hospital system.  If you are an inpatient, please let your nurse know if you wish to be visited by a hospital Chaplain.  The nursing staff can request the visit for you.  Chaplains are available to provide spiritual and emotional support, which includes prayer, providing religious materials, helping to process medical decisions or assisting you in contacting your personal clergy/spiritual leader.

Good Samaritan Chapel

The Good Samaritan Chapel, located on the first floor between the Cafeteria and Surgical Services, is available for personal and family meditation, prayer, and special services and is open 24 hours a day for people of all faiths.  Its use is overseen by the Pastoral Care staff. We encourage the use of the Chapel as a place of quiet meditation where you may replenish your spirit.

Eucharistic Ministry

Eucharistic Ministry is offered every Sunday through Friday. Ministers from local Catholic congregations bring the Host to distribute to inpatients who have a Roman Catholic religious affiliation. Members of other Christian denominations may request communion through their own faith community or speak to the chaplain. Patients of other faiths may request religious rites through their particular faith base as they are in keeping with hospital standards of care.