Meet Our Chaplain: Spiritual Care in Hospice

When you think of hospice care, medical support might be the first thing that comes to

mind—nurses managing pain, doctors adjusting medications. But hospice is about more than the

body; it’s about the whole person. That’s where our chaplain, Sarah Mountain, comes in. With a

warm smile and a listening ear, Sarah brings spiritual care to our patients and families, helping

them navigate life’s deepest questions during its final chapter.

A Guide for the Soul

Sarah has been with our hospice team for over a decade, drawn to this work by her belief that no

one should feel alone at the end of life. Whether someone is devoutly faithful, quietly agnostic,

or somewhere in between, Sarah meets them where they are.

Her role isn’t to preach or impose beliefs. Instead, she listens. She sits with patients as they

reflect on their lives, wrestle with fears, or seek forgiveness. For some, it’s about prayer or

scripture. For others, it’s a quiet conversation about nature, love, or the legacy they’ll leave

behind.

Beyond the Patient

Sarah’s support extends to families, too. The end of a loved one’s life can stir up a whirlwind of

emotions—grief, guilt, even relief—that families might not know how to process. She offers a

steady presence, helping them say goodbye in a way that feels right. Sometimes it’s facilitating a

simple ritual, like lighting a candle together. Other times, it’s just being there, holding space for

tears or laughter.

Part of the Hospice Heart

In hospice, we believe care isn’t complete without addressing the spirit. Sarah works hand-in-

hand with our nurses, social workers, and volunteers to ensure every patient feels seen and heard.

She might collaborate with a nurse to time a visit when a patient is most alert or join a social

worker to support a family in crisis. It’s a team effort, and her contribution reminds us that

healing isn’t just physical—it’s emotional and spiritual, too.

A Compassionate Companion

Meeting Sarah is like meeting a friend you didn’t know you needed. Her gentle approach and

open heart embody what hospice stands for: caring for the whole person, not just the illness.

Whether she’s sharing a hymn, a story, or simply silence, she’s there to remind our patients and

families that they’re not alone on this journey. In her hands, spiritual care becomes a gift—one

that lifts the weight of the unknown and lights the way forward.