Shepherd Center - A Catastrophic Care Hospital

Chaplaincy

Catastrophic injury brings unexpected changes that call upon one to explore a new relationship with life. The question is where does one begin such a journey and to whom can one turn to along the way?

At Shepherd Center we are sensitive to these concerns. We understand that all aspects of individual care need attention in moments such as this.

In the area of spiritual guidance our Chaplaincy Department and the attending chaplains are a dedicated resource available to respond to these needs.

Support for Patients, Families & Caregivers

Our chaplains’ program is a vital part of Shepherd’s interdisciplinary healthcare team concept. They are an intricate part of a diverse approach that honors the physical, emotional and spiritual requirements of those being cared for.

Our chaplains respect the multiplicity of all faiths and denominations, honoring the personal relationship between the individual and their God. Many choose to have personal faith discussions with our chaplains, while others benefit from discovering the healing value of a good friend and devoted listener.

In addition to patient and caregiver visitations, the chaplains’ role is to be a spiritual resource for inspirational literature and prayer.

The chaplains visit Shepherd patients in response to their request to review the options of care under our Advance Directives, which provide forms for either Living Wills or Healthcare Durable Power of Attorney consideration.

Sacred Ceremonies

The chaplains at Shepherd Center are able to offer their services for sacred moments such as baptism, communion, commitment and marriage ceremonies, anointing and blessings.

If your faith tradition has specific requirements that cannot be met by our chaplains, they will work with you to find resources within the Atlanta community to assist you.

Private Chapel Worship

Shepherd’s Chapel provides a safe, sacred space for private worship. It is located on the first floor of the Shepherd Building.

The Chapel at Shepherd Center is always open for quiet prayer and meditation. Bibles, prayer books, hymnals, CareNotes and devotional materials are also available.

Worship Services and Individual Prayer

Shepherd Center recognizes that many who are away from home and their faith community need a place to turn for spiritual nourishment and healing. Our non-denominational worship services are dedicated to honoring this need. Services are held at 1:30 pm on Sundays and last for one hour.

The worship atmosphere is casual and accessible. The seating is flexible to better accommodate family grouping if desired. In addition to worship at Shepherd Center, there are also monthly and select holiday services offered at Shepherd Pathways.

Sunday Services

Each Sunday, Shepherd Center holds an afternoon worship service. This nondenominational service provides patients, families and visitors with an opportunity for fellowship and worship, and also allows participants to "borrow hope" from one another in preparation for the coming weeks of rehabilitation.