Bringing Christ to the sick: Hospital Chaplaincy ministry in 2025

When a person is seriously ill or nearing the end of life, the presence of a priest can bring profound comfort to patients and their families. Throughout the Diocese of Calgary, parish priests respond to requests for the Sacraments for the sick and dying in their communities. In Calgary, Lethbridge and Medicine Hat, dedicated systems help ensure that this pastoral care is available around the clock amid the high volume of calls from hospitals, hospices, and care homes.

The ministry is especially important in Calgary, where seven priest chaplains provide 24 hour emergency sacramental care across a large network of health care facilities. They serve five hospitals, more than six hospices, and 43 care homes, responding when patients or families urgently request a priest.

​The chaplains bring the Church’s sacramental ministry directly to those who are unable to come to a parish. Through the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, Confession, Holy Communion, and blessings, they accompany people during some of the most difficult and vulnerable moments of their lives.

​In Medicine Hat, one priest chaplain serves the local hospital, hospice, and 14 care homes. In addition to responding to direct calls for emergency sacramental care, the chaplain provides ongoing pastoral support to patients and residents, ensuring that their spiritual needs are cared for throughout their time in these facilities.

In Lethbridge, emergency pastoral care is coordinated through collaboration between part time priest chaplains and parish priests. Together, they serve the local hospital and hospice, as well as 37 care homes, responding when patients request the Sacraments and providing pastoral care within the community.

For families, knowing that a priest is available when a loved one is seriously ill can be a tremendous source of peace. One parishioner shared her gratitude after her mother received the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick and a blessing before she passed away:

“Words can’t express how grateful I was to know that mom received the anointing of the sick and blessing before she passed away from chaplain. Thank you, Lord!”

​Behind every number is a person, a patient, a family member, a moment of fear or uncertainty, and an opportunity for the Church to bring Christ’s mercy and consolation.

Through the dedication of priest chaplains and parish priests, the Diocese of Calgary continues to accompany the sick and dying with prayer, the Sacraments, and the compassionate presence of the Church. In hospitals, hospices, and care homes, this ministry is a reminder that no one has to face suffering or the end of life alone.