From Danville Regional Health System
Better Health Magazine Archives

When a patient is hospitalized, physicians and nurses take care of the patient's physical needs. But it is just as important that someone can help patients - and their families - understand their feelings and experiences. That person is the Reverend Brenda Lee, Danville Regional Medical Center's first full-time chaplain.

"I believe spiritual care is a vital part of the healing process, and a chaplain is a very important part of the patient's healing team," said Rev. Lee. "It is important to look after the emotional, spiritual and physical aspects of a patient's illness to achieve a holistic approach to healing."

A Richmond native, Rev. Lee is a graduate of Averett College in Danville and holds a Master of Divinity with Christian Education Degree from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, North Carolina. Rev. Lee is Board Certified with the Association of Professional Chaplains and is a member of the Virginia Chaplains Association. Before she came to Danville Regional Medical Center last fall, she served as Director of Pastoral Care at Shore Memorial Hospital in Nassawadox, Virginia.

As the head of Pastoral Care Services, Rev. Lee will provide leadership among the staff of volunteer clergy and help to coordinate their services. "I'd like to change the idea that chaplains are only called on in the event of death," she said. "There's a lot we can do here through education to enhance pastoral care."

Although she is a Baptist minister, Rev. Lee is available to comfort patients of all faiths. "I bring an ecumenical approach to this institution. I truly respect the faiths and cultures of others and am continuously learning about them," she said.

But the most important aspect of her job is being present when patients and staff need her most. "Chaplaincy truly is the ministry of presence," said Rev. Lee. "When words won't help, people only need your compassionate presence."