As chaplains, we put faith in our capacity to make a difference to the people we work with. We are skilled at listening, at being present in situations of loss and pain. We aim to help with the process of healing for those open to our ministry and to bring glimmers of hope into dark places.
As chaplains we believe that ours is a healing ministry and we work not only with our faith, our skills and experience but also the ‘tools’ of our religion. We provide access to spiritual and religious readings and resources. We may conduct services, and we spend time with people in prayer. But are we aware of the research which evidences the power of religion and belonging to a faith group, to heal? It is not practical in this article to delve deeply into the research which I allude to but here is a summary of the key findings.
The research carried out by Koenig, Mc Cullough and Larson systematically reviewed over 850 studies carried out in the twentieth and twenty first centuries on the links between religion and physical and mental health and showed that the practice of religion can be transformative.
The measurable components of the studies include such things as attending a place of worship, social support, prayer, reading of scriptures and the sense of identity that belonging to a faith community can generate.
The measurable health outcomes are extensive and include extended life expectancy, lower blood pressure, reduced levels of pain in cancer sufferers, increased success in heart transplants, and so on… (Koenig et al 2001)
Studies also show statistically significant associations between religion and mental health. The practice of religion appears to help people cope with stress and aids recovery from depression. It is associated with less suicide and less dependence on alcohol and drugs. Religious teachings place restrictions and create expectations in terms of behaviour. Religious groups also provide a sense of belonging and therefore protective factors. Having a faith is associated with finding sources of forgiveness and hope. (Koenig 2005).
Currently the field of neurotheology seeks to understand the relationship between the human brain and our spiritual selves. Many of their research findings replicate those of Koenig et al. The research also shows that, ‘when people feel connected to all of humanity, a higher power or the entire universe, that experience gives people a sense of meaning and purpose in life and an optimistic perspective on what the future holds.’ (Neuropsych -May 2021)
Research such as this does not necessarily change what we do as chaplains, but it affirms our practices. Through our ministry and compassionate engagement, we enable those we work with to find for themselves, sources of hope and healing leading to better mental and physical health.
Canon Mary Hanna
Chaplain Peterborough City Hospital
Trustee. Cambridgeshire Workplace Chaplaincy.
References.
Koenig. H G.M.E. Mc Cullough and D. B. Larson 2001. Handbook of Religion and Health. A century of research Reviewed.: New York: University Press.
Koenig. H.G. Faith and Mental health. Religious Resources for Healing. London: Templeton Foundation Press.
Mind and God. The new science of neurotheology-Big Think. May 6th 2021