L I F T I N G   T H E           
Spirit

. . .This is the paradox of vision:
     Sharp perception softens our existence in the world.

        Susan Griffin, "Happiness"

Like most things worth having, great vision is indeed a paradox. At its core is a keen, incisive focus. Yet it is often this sharp insight that opens the doors on a softer world, where compassion, equality, and freedom are the true rulers.

I have been privileged in my tenure at The HealthCare Chaplaincy to benefit from the brilliance of many great leaders. Our Board of Trustees and advisory committees have been comprised of extraordinary experts in fields such as financial planning, real estate, law, religious life, and, of course, healthcare. Their dedication and professional guidance have been invaluable to their clients and constituents, and to The Chaplaincy in its mission to provide pastoral care services to those in need.

Our chaplains approach their work with equal professionalism. Their formal pastoral education has endowed them with "sharp perception" in matters of illness, death and dying, and tragedy. Yet this skillful awareness is what allows them to offer spiritual solace to patients, families, and staff, "softening their existence" in their darkest hours.

At the same time, The Chaplaincy’s work would not be possible without visionary healthcare leaders who believe in the connection between spirituality and healing.

This past January, The Chaplaincy and the world lost a great steward in Dr. David Skinner. As a physician, educator, and healthcare executive, Dr. Skinner’s bold vision culminated in laying the foundation for a more integrated, quality healthcare system in the merger of two world-class medical institutions to form the New York-Presbyterian Hospital and the New York-Presbyterian Healthcare System, linking nearly 40 facilities. His work was no doubt that of a shrewd businessman. Yet it resulted in the delivery of high-quality healthcare services to many communities in the metropolitan area.

Dr. Skinner’s commitment to care that is compassionate as well as high quality was evidenced by his support of the hospital’s partnership with The HealthCare Chaplaincy. The establishment of a Department of Pastoral Care and Education attended to the spiritual dimension of health and healing for so many patients who have passed through the hospital’s doors. In 2000, The Chaplaincy presented Dr. Skinner with a Lifetime Achievement award, recognizing his concern for the wholeness of life.

Perhaps the most fitting tribute The Chaplaincy can pay Dr. Skinner is to continue in pursuit of our shared goal—compassionate healthcare that nourishes the mind, body, and spirit.
We shall miss his extraordinary vision, and his ability to "soften our existence in the world."