Spiritual Diversity of Healthcare Providers: Different Perspectives from a Sikh, Tao and Catholic Health Care Provider

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1 Corinthians 9:22 To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some (New International Version). This scripture stated by the Apostle Paul was used to declare his commitment, not only to God, but to mankind. His statement created a model not only for ministry but for healthcare. In a culturally diverse society it is important that each provider attempt to put the needs of the patient before their own in order to provide the best possible care. This is also true in a spiritually divers culture. Where there is not a need to completely understand the foundations of religious beliefs but the willingness to be all things by all possible means so that some may receive healing. These spiritually driven cultures use rituals, prayer, meditation and music as vehicles to deliver them to a place of comfort, renewal strength and healing. The three cultures being presented today use these spiritually driven devices both personally and professionally so that they can fulfill the spirit meaning of I Corinthians 9: 22. Sikh, Tao and Catholic (Filipino) are based on strong spiritual relationships. When they are right spiritually then their life is in balance and they are better able to serve those around them.

Jen L. has been a Social Worker for twenty years. She is married with 2 children and is a Sikh. Though she was born here in the United States her family was from the Punjab region of India and she and her husband are more “Americanized” in how they practice their religion. But she does hold to the basic truths. If she were a traditional Sikh she would practice the “5 K’s”. Kesh (uncut hair) Kara (a steel bracelet) Kanga (a wooden comb) Kaccha (cotton underwear) ...

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...ron saint. Overall she values the relationship she has with God and how that benefits her physically, emotionally and spiritually.

What is shared by these 3 very diverse beliefs it the worship of one God and that God is who guides and directs them. The foundations of who they are spiritually are grounded in the truth of who God is to them. This translates into the type of caregivers they are, unconditional, respectful, and spiritual. They each bring a unique sacred touch to patient’s lives and to the lives of other caregivers. They fulfill the challenge that the Apostle Paul posed so many years ago. Spiritually diversity is being all things, to all men, so that by all means, some may be healed.

Works Cited

Holy Bible: New International Version. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1978.

chifilipino.tripod.com/religion

www.sikhphilosophy.net

www.afccpc.org/prayer

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