COVID-19, Spiritual Support and Reflective Practice

Abstract

Three important areas are covered in this issue of HSCC: (i) COVID-19, (ii) spiritual support and (iii) reflective practice – all fundamental to the future of chaplaincy. It is important to note that various formal research methodologies (whether quantitative or qualitative) are utilized across all three areas in this issue, and all are indicative of the changing nature of chaplaincy increasing its evidence-based practice. Indeed, the emphasis on evidenced-based practice within chaplaincy has become considerable since the turn of the twenty-first century. This is particularly important given the previous humanistic models (i.e. biomedical, bio-psychological, bio-psychosocial), which have mostly (whether deliberately or subconsciously) avoided or opposed the inclusion of religious or spiritual care within health and social care contexts due to the lack of empirical evidence. This century seems to be advancing with an increased recognition of the need for a more truly holistic approach to health and well-being; namely, the utilization of the bio-psychosocial-spiritual model of care (Sulmasy, 2002), which intentionally encourages religion and spirituality research, and the encompassing of those from any faith and those with non-religious belief systems. The bio-psychosocial-spiritual model is also increasingly important for ensuring that there is appropriate religious/spiritual care for future