Nuzum, D;Meaney, S;O'Donoghue, K;Morris, H

2015

September

Journal Of Pastoral Care &Amp; Counseling

The Spiritual and Theological Issues Raised by Stillbirth for Healthcare Chaplains

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Altmetric: 19 ()

69

163

170

The death of a baby is one of the most challenging bereavements for parents and healthcare professionals. This study explores the spiritual and theological issues raised for healthcare chaplains as they minister with parents following perinatal bereavement. Chaplains from 85% of maternity units in the Republic of Ireland participated in this study. Suffering, doubt and presence were the main theological themes raised for chaplains following perinatal death. The process of theological reflection is recommended as a sustaining and necessary tool in perinatal healthcare ministry.

THOUSAND OAKS

1542-3050

10.1177/1542305015602714