Spiritual Care is an integral component of our resident care team as we care for the whole person. It is concerned with the spiritual well-being of our residents, staff and community. Spiritual Care becomes an integral part of daily life at St. Benedict’s by encouraging and supporting all staff members to incorporate spirituality into care and services provided. The Spiritual Care staff provides guidance for issues requiring healing of body, mind, and spirit, especially as life’s hurts and losses are encountered. At St. Benedict’s, we respect the philosophy of clinical pastoral education. As an extension of the Sisters’ ministry, a deliberate effort took place in 1995. This effort provided new energy for the residents, family and staff. It also became more prevalent with the addition of our first full time Director of Spiritual Care, Sr. Marie Hunkler, O.S.B. Presently, the department is staffed by two people. They provide much more than opportunities for church services, communion, blessings, and prayer for our residents. They are the resource and backbone we all turn to for guidance and support. Because of the positive influence they bring to St. Benedict’s through their clinical pastoral excellence, many of the volunteers and staff are comfortable leading prayer or study groups for our residents.