European Network of Healthcare Chaplaincy, older news items 2002-2007

Euro-Chaplaincy News

Send news items to:

All-Ukrainian Association of Pallaitive Care

Information has been received about the All-Ukranian Association of Palliative Care

General Information on Palliative Care in Ukraine

Palliative care development in Ukraine ( 2006 – November 2007)

All-Ukrainian Council for Patients' Rights and Safety

[December 2007]

Top

Ensuring a caring, careful death for all

Bryan Nolan from Dublin has drawn our attention to an article about the importance of chaplains for dying people written by a colleague of his on the Hospice Friendly Hospitals Programme in Ireland. Writing in the Irish Times on 23 October 2007 Paul Murray writes about care for the dying and how chaplains are there when we have more need of the divine than a physician

Read the Article

[November 2007]

Top

National Meeting of Association of Professional Chaplains

The national meeting of the Association of Professional Chaplains in the USA will be held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 8-12 March 2008. More information on the APC website: www.professionalchaplains.org

[November 2007]

Top

International Council on Pastoral Care and Counselling.
8th World Congress of ICPCC 2007

Kathleen O'Connor from Ireland has written an article about the 8th World Congreress of the International Council on Pastoral Care and Counselling which was held in Poland in August. This will give an overview of the congress for those who were not able to attend.

Read the articleICPCC Website

[October 2007]

Top

Northern Ireland Healthcare Chaplains Association

The new Director of Training for the Northern Ireland Healthcare Chaplains Association, Derek Johnston has shared two PowerPoint presentations from a recent training event:

Mental Health Awareness

Suicide Awareness

[October 2007]

Top

Establishment and development of palliative care in Ukraine

Anne Miller-Lauprete from France visited Ukraine in May 2007 and has written about the establishment and development of palliative care, giving a glimpse of the health situation in Ukraine today. Anne writes, "The exchanges between France and the Ukraine in the area of palliative care are definitely thanks to the Network and especially to the Web site."

Read Anne's paper

Declaration following the Ukrainian-French Seminar (14-15 September 2007, Kiev)

[August 2007]

Top

3rd Czech – Slovak Ecumenical Consultation for Healthcare Chaplains and Pastoral Workers

Marie Opatrná who was a representative at the ENHCC Lisbon Consultation in 2006 gives information about the Czech – Slovak consultation for healthcare chaplains and pastoral workers which takes place at the end of September. She writes, "The first meeting was two years ago, when we were 4 persons. Last year we were about 10 persons, this year we should be about 30.)
Another significant development in Prague is the agreement of both the Dean of the Charles University and the Director of the General Teaching Hospital in Prague to the establishment of a Clinical Pastoral Care Unit.

Programme of the Czech – Slovak consultation

[August 2007]

Top

Coordinator sends greetings to Latvian Conference

August 16, 2007

To the Members of the Association of
Professional Healthcare Chaplaincy of Latvia

Dear Fellow Chaplains of Latvia,

As you begin your noteworthy conference of Latvian Chaplaincy, the second in your history, allow me to relay the best wishes of all the participants of the European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy (ENHCC), that your conference be most successful.

The Association of Professional Healthcare Chaplaincy of Latvia has proven to be a prime example of how chaplaincy can grow on all levels, developing a high professional standard of spiritual health care. It gives all of us hope that others will follow your example.

The theme of your conference is timely. At this moment, one of the main concerns of the European Union is how care can be offered to those who are struggling in illness and in the face of death. The ENHCC has been involved in discussions on a EU level which seem to be promising. The fact that your conference will deal with this issue on an inter-discipline level shows you realize the many facets of this area of concern.

What we very often forget, though, is that the struggle with life and death issues actually begins before illness and death become obvious. Each crisis of daily life poses us with the challenge to maintain our human dignity and place our lives in the perspective of God's Eternal Kingdom. Truly, there cannot be real dignity if we cannot assort the meaning of life in relation to what is eternal. Facing illness and death through this perspective gives one great hope in God's everlasting love and mercy.

I am sure that your conference will be successful in that your bond as chaplains will give you all the requirements needed to continue providing spiritual care to those that have been entrusted to you.

Sincerely,

Rev. Dr. Stavros Kofinas
Coordinator of the European Network of Healthcare Chaplaincy
(Representative of the Ecumenical Patriarchate)

Top

Conference in Latvia

Latvia Association of Professional Health Care Chaplaincy (LPVAKA) is holding it's 2nd international conference "The Quality of Life in Illness and Death - Interdisciplinary Approach" on 21-22 August, 2007. For detailed information, please, visit LPVAKA's web site http://www.lpvaka.lv/indexstarteng.html[August 2007]

Top

Death of Ton Hanrath

Roel Hekking from the Netherlands has passed on news of the sudden death of Tom Hanrath in a car accident while on holiday in France.
Fr Stavros has written a letter of sympathy to the chaplaincy organisation in the Netherlands, VGVZ:

Dear Fellow Chaplains of the Netherlands,

I was very saddened and grieved by the news that Ton Hanrath of the Netherlands died at the age of 49 in a fatal automobile accident while travelling with his family in France.Ton was one of the founding members of the consultations for hospital chaplaincies that began in 1990. Together with Roel Hekking, he organized the 3rd Consultation in Oirschot, the Netherlands, in September 1994, which had as its theme: “The relationship between ministerial and professional competence regarding the quality standard of Hospital Chaplaincy”. Attending this Consultation were 24 participants from 15 countries. Ton continued playing a leading role in the consultations of Bath, England (1996) and Rome (1998). At the historic consultation that took place in Crete in 2000, Ton posed the need to form a network which would formally bring European Chaplaincies together. Throughout his deep concern for the advancement of chaplaincy in Europe, Ton accentuated the need for professionalism and high standards of all spiritual care givers. His insistence on high quality care was a momentum in forming the Standards of Health Care Chaplaincy in Europe.Within his own country, the Netherlands, he was instrumental in forming the multi-cultural aspect of spiritual health care.

On behalf of all the chaplains throughout Europe, I would like to ask that you relay my sincere sympathy to all the members of the VGVZ for the tragic loss of such a very energetic and significant colleague.

Rev. Dr. Stavros Kofinas
Coordinator of the European Network of Healthcare Chaplaincy

[August 2007]

Top

European Network of Homeless Health Workers

We have just received the first two issues of the newsletter of the new European Network of Homeless Health Workers.

[August 2007]

Top

Recommendations on State, Religion, Secularity and Blasphemy

During its June 2007 part-session, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe adopted the following texts, emanating from the Committee on Culture, Science and Education,

[August 2007]

Top

Church and Society Commission Update on European Affairs June 2007

Topic covered: Treaty reform, future perspectives: Portuguese EU Presidency – social issues – Commission key initiatives for 2008, CSC Plenary Meeting, intercultural dialogue, EU-CoE cooperation.

Update Documents June 2007

CSC Report on the Treaty Reform

CSC/CCME response to the Council of Europe White Paper consultation on Intercultural Dialogue

[August 2007]

Top

Hospital Visiting Volunteers in Pécs, Hungary

Tünde Édes, who has worked as as the only hospital chaplain for the last 16 years in the hospitals of Pécs in Hungary writes about a new exciting scheme for volunteer hospital visitors in her city.

Text of the Presentation by Tünde Édes

[July 2007]

Top

ENHCC involvement in EU Palliative Care Meeting

In his July Coordinator's report, Fr Stavros writes about his involvement in a meeting held at the Office of the EU's Commissioner for Public Health regarding “Palliative Care in Europe”. This meeting was initially suggested by the ENHCC when we presented our statement on Palliative Care to the Director of the Commissioner's office, Mr. Margaritas Schinas, this past autumn.

[July 2007]

Top

Rev Naatan Hammer invites Representatives to the 10th Consultation of ENHCC in Tartu Estonia

The first invitation letter has now been sent out to invite representative to come to the 10th Consultation of the European Network of Healthcare Chaplaincy will will take place in Tartu, Estonia 28 May-1 June 2008. [More]

[July 2008]

Top

Nordic Chaplains meet in Finalnd

The 18th Nordic Conference for Hospital Chaplains was held in Porvoo, Finland, 13 - 16 June 2007 with the theme The Landscape of the Soul. There were 80 participants from all Nordic countries.
The Conference was organised by the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland and led by the Rev. Kirsti Aalto.

[June 2007]

Top

Conference in Latvia August 21-22 2007

Network Committee member,Dana Kalniņa–Zaķe, who is Chair of the Board of LPVAKA and Head of the Spiritual Care Department of Paul Stradins Clinical University Hospital has sent information a forthcoming conference in Latvia: "The Quality of Life in Illness and Death - Interdisciplinary Approach" www.lpvaka.lv

Provisional Progamme

[June 2007]

Top

Visits to San Francisco and London

In his May report to the Network Fr Stavros writes about his experiences at the Association of Professional Chaplains' Conference in San Francisco and his visits organised in London by Fr Edward Lewis. [More]

[May 2007]

Top

Updates from the Conference of European Churches

Below are 3 documents received from the Council of European Churches.

CSC Update on European Affairs (May 2007)

Talking with one of the founding father, Max Kohnstamm

CSC Report on the Constitutional Debate

[May 2007]

Top

Network invited to participate in an EU meeting on Palliative Care in Europe

Fr Stavros writes: During Holy Week, I received a call from the office of the Commissioner of Public Health of the European Union telling me that there will be a meeting on “Palliative Care in Europe” in June. This is a direct response to the request we as the ENHCC made to the Commissioner in October, when we presented him with the Statement on Palliative Care. I was informed that this meeting will take place on June 13th in Brussels. It will be a meeting, with representatives of major European organizations such as ours which deal with Palliative Care and representatives from the EU Commission and Parliament.
Since being informed by the Commissioner's office, we have spoke several other times. He has stressed that this all is being done after the idea posed by us and is very thankful and hopeful for good progress.
This is a major break though for the ENHCC in its efforts in shaping health care in Europe in a way where the spiritual/religious needs of the sick are tended to and where chaplaincy is acknowledged.

List of participants
[June 2007]

Top

EUFAMI - 4th European Congress - Poland - September 2007

The 4th European Congress of EUFAMI (European Federation of Associations of Families of People with Mental Illness) will hold their 4th European Congress "Touching the Stars, toward a better quality of life" in Torun, Poland 14-16 September 2007. It is a congress for family members, people with experience of mental illness and health and social care professionals.For more information and how to register visit www.eufami.org

[March 2007]

Top

Fr Stavros writes to the President of the European Association of Palliative Care

Fr Stavros has written to Marilene Filbet, President of the European Association of Palliative Care. He draws attention to the Network and our statement on palliative care made in Lisbon in 2006.This has now been published on the website of the European Association of Palliative Care. www.eapcnet.org/latestnews/EuropeanNetworkHCCh.htm

Marilène Filbert replies:

It is a great honour that you send to our association all this very important work. As you said we have a lot of things in common and we can share all the recommendation already done. I suggest that you publish your standards in our journal, and in our web site.

Letter to Marilene Filbert

[February 2007]

Community Action on Health Services

Fr Stavros has offered a response to the EU concerning community action on health services.The response is published with the others on the EU website (Number R033) here: EU Website

EU Commission consultation regarding communition action on health services

ENHCC Response

CEC Church and Society Commission and Eurodiaconia joint response

[January 2007]

Top

December Debriefing Meeting after EU Summit

- Brussels, 18-12-2006

Dr Michael Weninger hosted a debriefing meeting after the EU summit earlier this month. He gave report on four issues:

the European constitutionthe enlargement of the EUTurkey
Kosovo.

Two special guests introduced their work at the EU. Those chaplains that are working with young adults should check out the text of Lerais and those chaplains who are part of ethical committees should check out the work of the European Group on Ethics. Belgian greetings from your reporter-on-the-spot Anne Vandenhoeck [More]

[December 2006]

Top

The Coordinator writes his thanks after Brussels Dialogue Seminar

Fr Stavros sent letters of thanks to officials in Brussels participating in the dialogue seminar on "Social Services and Healthcare Services: A Contribution of the Churches and Church Organizations to the European Social Model” held in October 2006.

[Read Fr Stavros' account of the seminar]

Letter to Stefan Lunte (Assistant to the Secretary General,
COMECE)

Letter to Dieter Heidtmann (Excecutive Secretary, Church and Society Commission, CEC)

Letter to Michael Weninger, European Policy Advisor on Dialogue with Religions, Churches and Humanism of the
European Union

Letter to Margaritas Schinas, Chef of Cabinet of the Commissioner for Health and Consumer Protection, Markos Kyprianou, European Commission

[November 2006]

Top

Working Group on Bioethics

We have received a summary of the decisions taken at the latest meeting of the Working Group on Bioethics of the Church and Society Commission of CEC.

Read the summary

[October 2006]

Top

Complementary Spiritual Practices

The Association of Professional Chaplains in USA has published a chart describing the variety of complementary spiritual practices and theraplies which are now in use. They invite others to submit information on this topic.

[More Information]

[November 2006]

Top

ENHCC will feature in a forthcoming book about Chaplaincy>

Fr Rudolf Albisser (Co-president of the Association of Catholic Health Care Chaplains in German Speaking Switzerland) will publish a translation in German of a shortened version of the Coordinator's report made at the Lisbon Consultation. This will appear soon in a book about new developments in hospital chaplaincy, Spitalseelsorge im Wandel.

Text in German[October 2006]

Top

Report about the Lisbon Consultation published in Switzerland

Marlène Inauen has written a full report of the Lisbon Consultation which was published in October 2006 in German in the Schweizerische Kirchen-Zeitung (The official Journal of the Bishops' Conference of Switzerland) Page 662

Read the article on Page 662: BRÜCKEN BILDEN – HOFFNUNG STÄRKEN 818KB

[October 2006]

Top

Czech – Slovak Consultation on Health Care Chaplaincy

Marie Opatrná has sent a copy of the programme of the Czech – Slovak Consultation on Health Care Chaplaincy held 5-8 October 2006. This Consultation was held under the auspices of Department of Oncology of the First Faculty of Medicine and General Teaching Hospital – Clinical Pastoral Care Centre.

Read the Programme

Top

Ukraine marks World Hospice and Palliative care Day

Continuing the report about the palliative care development in Ukraine, I would like to inform you that All-Ukrainian Council for patients rights and security organized or initiated some events connected with World Hospice and palliative care day. Leaders of largest Churches of Ukraine supported the initiative of the All-Ukrainian Council for prayer for the dying and incurably ill persons on 7th October 2006. Also a press-conference about the World hospice and palliative care Day was held.
The representative of Ministry of Health Mrs. O. Kolyakowa, Vice-President of All-Ukrainian Council Mr. W.Serdiuk, representative of International Renaissance Foundation Ms. M.Sawchuk and President of the Palliative care Association Mrs. S.Martyniuk-Gres participated in it. Four TV channels broadcasted it and five publications in newspapers issued.
Also, the second meeting of Task Force on improving of legal acts on palliative care took place. At the meeting, deputy mayor of Kharkiw city proposed a pilot project on palliative care implementation in Kharkiw. He accented the possibility of financing of hospices and creating
a palliative care system in Kharkiw from the budget costs – 2007.
Reaction from the Kharkiw administration is very hopeful. Task Force activities on needs assessment consolidate efforts of regional enthusiasts and creates good foundations for new activities and initiatives directed towards patients rights advocacy.
The activities of the Task Force has shown that the basic directions of activities in palliative care in which the technical support and additional resources needed are:

Analysis and monitoring of needs in palliative careAnalysis of barriers (legal, educational, organizational etc) and monitoring of access to adequate anesthetizationForming and implementation of the National protocol of the pain syndromeForming of educational programs, books and other materials to educate palliative care specialistsElaboration of legal acts which regulate implementation and development of palliative care in Ukraine (on both regional and national levels)Intensive experience exchange with international experts (seminars, conferences workshops etc)
Improving the actual material base of palliative care provision

Alexander Wolf
Palliative care in Ukraine advocacy Director [19 October 2006]

(September 2006)

Top

ENHCC to attend Brussels Seminar on Health and Social Care

Fr Stavros writes:This is a short note to inform you that our Network has been asked to participate in a “Dialogue Seminar: Social Services and Healthcare Services: A Contribution of the Churches and Church Organisations to the European Social Model” that will take place in Brussels, held by the European Union in conjunction with the Conference of European Churches (Commission of Church and Society). The meeting will be held on the 17th and 18th of October. Those invited to the meeting are the Churches that have liaison offices at the EU.

I have decided to go to Brussels and attend this meeting. It will give us, as a Network, the opportunity to make our presence and show that we play in decisive role in the area of health care. This meeting will also give me the opportunity to make direct contact with the General Secretary of the Commission of Church and Society of the CEC in Brusssels, Rev. R. Noll, and explore ways in which our organizations can work closer together.

Being that I will be in Brussels, I have arranged a meeting with Mr. Maragretas Schinas, Director of the office of the Commissioner of Public Health. At this meeting, I will present him with the statement on Palliative Care that we made in Lisbon and explore the possibilities to calling a meeting of all the chief agents involved in this area of care. Being that Dana Kalnina-Zake will also be in Brussels to attend the Dialogue Seminar, representing Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia, I have asked her and Anne Vandenhoek, our EU representative, to join me at this meeting.

[11 October 2006]

Top

Ukraine holds an Ecumentical Service for Palliative Care

Let me greet you on behalf of the All-Ukrainian Council for Patients
Rights and Security.

The numerous addresses, briefs and asks of the Ukrainian citizens made us to begin the project of Palliative Care in Ukraine.

The Palliative Care care has not only medical and social aspects; it
has a strong spiritual aspect.

So, in the World day of the hospice and palliative care (07.October
2006) we plan to organise the Ecumenical Divine Service (or The
Ecumenical Prayer) where representatives of different Churches. Also,we addressed the First Persons of the Churches acting in Ukraine and proposed them to organise the prayers for those who are dying in Ukraine, is incurably ill or needs the palliative care. For
now, the ideas are officially supported by the Roman-Catholic Church, Evangelic-Lutheran Church and Ukrainian Lutheran Church. Other Ukrainian Churches (also Orthodox) supported us also.

If you have any materials, ideas, please send them to us. The contact person is Mr. Alexander Wolf, the Project Palliative Care Coordinator. His E-mail is ,
phone / fax + 38 (044) 235 65 87

With kindest regards,
Prof. MDr Yuri Gubski
President of the Council

Progress in Palliative Care in Ukraine July-September 2006

Press Release

[September 2006]

Top

Fr Stavros send greetings to Finnish Chaplains' Conference

Dear Fellow Chaplains in Finland,

On behalf of all the participants of the European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy, I would like to greet you upon the embankment of your annual Conference which is to take place in Oulu (Northern Finland).

The chaplains of Finland have been an important part in the development of chaplaincy in Europe. This has been highlighted by Rev. Kirsti Aalto's participation in all the European consultations that have taken place since 1990, her significant participation in forming the draft for the Standards of Chaplaincy for Europe and her election to the Network Committee since the Turku Consultation in 2002, which your National Chaplaincy graciously hosted.

Allow me to thank you for the Finnish participation in our recent Consultation that took place in Lisbon this past May. Here, firm steps were made in building bridges so that chaplaincy can grow in hope. One of the steps taken was in agreeing on a “Statement on Palliative Care”.

The theme of your Conference in Oulu, "As companions to the hope and grace", strikes a sensitive part of chaplaincy that will allow you to build your own bridge toward hope.

Very often we as chaplains fall into the trap of supposing that we are capable of healing the spiritual and psychological wounds of those we minister. In doing this, we lose sight of who we really are and what is really needed in order for healing to take place. This often leads us to reach the point of despondency because we soon realize our own inadequacies, weaknesses and inabilities. We then become like the apostles who turned to Christ and asked: “why can we not heal” (Mark 9:29) and we fail to hear His response – that this can only take place if one, through prayer and abstinence, allows the grace of God to govern one's life. For, the power to heal is not ours, but Christ's who lives in us. When Christ lives in us, we do not express love in our limited human form, but we are an expression of His loving grace and bearers of hope – a hope in the Eternal Kingdom, “where there is no pain, nor sorrow, nor suffering, but life everlasting”. Thus, if we remain masked behind our facade in our attempt to hide our inadequacies and sinfulness, we will continue creating impersonal and shallow communities based on committees, social activities, and self-justified philanthropy. If we persist in our narrow-minded zealousness, we will remain ignorant of God's charismata (gifts of grace). Even worse, we will confuse our people and misguide them, not being able to diagnose their illnesses and determine their needed remedy.

With prayers that your annual conference will be successful, I assure you that all of the chaplains in Europe will benefit from your gathering, so that we can join together and be united in His service.

Sincerely,

Rev. Dr. Stavros Kofinas
Coordinator of the European Network of Healthcare Chaplaincy

[11 August 2006]

Top

Yunus Dudhwala interviewed in Amicus Health Magazine

The face of Yunus Dudhwala smiles out from the cover of the Summer 2006 edition of the magazine Amicus Health, published by the Amicus Trade Union in the United Kingdom. Yunus (who was one of the UK College of Health Care Chaplains representatives at the ENHCC consultations in Dublin and Lisbon) was interviewed about the vital role of chaplaincy in today's NHS. Although spiritual care is vital for the health of many patients, it can sometimes be overlooked.
Read the Article Keeping the Faith [635KB]
(Kindly provided by the Editor of Amicus Health)

[10 July 2006]

The White Dove flies free...

At the end of the opening ceremony of the 9th Consultation of the European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy held in Lisbon, Portugal in May 2006 a white dove was released into the sky in the Convent garden.
At the beginning of July, Fr Nuno (who organised the Consultation) visited the Convent again. He writes:
The white Dove is still there. She lives at the Convent. The sisters every day give food to her. And, they tell me, they every day pray for us, because the dove reminds them of our Consultation. Myself, I went there some days ago, and I could see the Dove... still flying, so free... as we have to be!

[6 July 2006]

Top

The 18th Nordic Conference for Hospital Chaplains

The 18th Nordic Conference for Hospital Chaplains will take place on 13–16 June 2007 in Borgå, Finland. The theme is "The Landcape of the Soul". For more information contact:

Information leaflet

[8 June 2006]

Top

Sermon in Commemoration of Florence Nightingale

Dr Rowan Williams, the Archbishop of Canterbury of the Church of England, preached a sermon at Westminster Abbey in London for the nursing profession attending the annual Commemoration of Florence Nightingale.

[Read the text of the Sermon]

10 May 2006

Top

Coordinator sends Greetings to Irish Chaplains

Fr Stavros sent Greetings to the Annual General Meeting and Silver Jubilee of the National Association of Hospital Chaplains in Ireland. The Theme of the meeting was "Celebrating Christ Joyfully" and about 200 chaplains attended. Fr Stavros' letter will appear in the Assocaition's Newsletter, "The Carer"

[Read letter]

April 2006

Top

Conference on Religions and Violence

Hubert AUQUE, président de l'AIEMPR [www.aiempr.org ]
Association Internationale d'Etudes Médico-Psychologiques et Religieuses annonces le XVIIe congrès; il aura lieu en France, à Strasbourg - Palais Universitaire - du 10 au 14 juillet 2006 ; nous y entendrons en trois langues (avec interprétariat) -français, espagnol, italien-, outre les conférences en plénières, les interventions des membres des 17 pays de l'AIEMPR qui depuis trois ans ont travaillé sur le thème RELIGIONS ET VIOLENCES? Hubert AUQUE, president of the AIEMPR, [ www.aiempr.org ]
International Association for Medico-Psychological and Religious Studies announces the 17th conference in Strasbourg, France, July 10-14th, 2006 The conference will be held in three languages (French, Spanish, Italian) and will focus on the work the members of 17 countries have done on the issue of RELIGIONS AND VIOLENCE?Information from:

Marie-Madeleine Linck
Secrétariat congrès AIEMPR 2006
Commission Eglise et Société
Conférence des Eglises européennes
8 rue du Fossé-des-Treize
FR - 67000 STRASBOURG
T : +33 3 88 15 27 60
F : +33 3 88 15 27 61

18 April 2006

Hospital Chaplains meet in Strasbourg

The Protestant Commission for Hospital Chaplaincy is organizing a seminary in Strasbourg from April 3rd to April 7th 2006 for all French speaking hospital chaplains throughout Europe. The Commission organizes similar events every two years to facilitate contacts and exchanges between French speaking hospital chaplains. This year chaplains of all Christian Churches have been invited to attend as well as volunteers who visit the sick. The conferences given will treat current development of hospital chaplaincy and its practice throughout Europe. Thanks to contacts with the Network, colleagues from other European countries will give conferences during the seminary. We will have the honour to welcome Kirsti Aalto from Finland and Fr Angelo Brusco from Italy.23 March 2006

Top

Consent to the storage and use of embryos

Recently issued is a Chamber judgment at the European Court of Human Rights. The case concerns consent to the storage and use of embryos.

[Press Release]

20 March 2005

Top

Annual Canadian Chaplaincy Conference

The Canadian National Conference for Spiritual Care Providers and
Counsellors (CAPPE/ACPEP) wil be holding their annual conference 15-18th February 2006 in Winnipeg Manitoba, the heart of Canada. ENHCC Participants are invited to attend.

[More information]

14 January 2006

Top

Article about EU and ENHCC in PlainViews

Anne Vandenhoeck from Belgium has had an article published in PlainViews about the European Union and ENHCC.

Read the PlainViews article

18 November 2005

Top

Latvian Chaplaincy Conference

The November Newsletter of Peace Lutheran Church in Plymouth, Minnesota, USA has an article about the recent conference in Latvia of the Association of Professional Healthcare Chaplaincy of Latvia : "Spirituality and Health: the Integration of Professional Chaplaincy in Healthcare" . The article has some positive things to say about ENHCC.
Peace Lutheran Church was the main sponsor of the conference and has been influential in allowing halthcare chalaincy to develop in Latvia.

Read the article

6 November 2005

Top

Network Committee meet in Istanbul>

The members of the Network Committee of the ENHCC gathered between the 30th of September and the 2nd of October 2005 in Constantinople (Istanbul), Turkey, for their annual meeting. The meeting took place at the Ecumenical Patriarchate, who hosted the event.

[More]

3 November 2005

Top

Six faith groups in Britain warn against legalising assisted dying

We have received a press release from Ecumenical News International in Geneva about the assisted dying debate in the UK.

Leaders of six British faith communities have expressed grave concern at possible steps to legalise assisted dying for the terminally ill, in advance of a debate on the issue in the House of Lords, the upper house of the British parliament.
[More including the letter from the Faith Leaders to members of the UK parliament]

12 October 2005

Top

Professional Standards from the Netherlands

Read the English translation of the Professional Standard of the Netherlands Association of Spiritual Counsellors in Care Institutions (VGVZ). [Document] 26 September 2005

Top

Patenting of Stem cells

ENHCC has received a note written by Katrin Hatzinger from the EKD office in Brussels on the report of the European Commission on patenting of Stem cells.
It is in German, but the report can also be found in other languages on the EC website.

Note by Katrin Hatzinger (in German)
Press release and links in English

[16 September 2005]

Top

Coordinator sends Greetings to To the Participants of the Association of the Healthcare Chaplaincy of Latvia

Fr Stavros Kofinas wrote: On behalf of the European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy, allow me to convey my best wishes upon the embarkation of your conference whose theme will be: “Spirituality and Health Care - the Integration of Professional Chaplaincy in Heath Care” ....[more]

[25 August 2005]

Top

Some ENHCC people at the10th European Conference for Pastoral Care and Counselling: Sigtua, Sweden

[16 September 2005]

Top

10th European Conference for Pastoral Care and Counselling

The 10th European Conference for Pastoral Care and Counselling will be held in Sigtuna, Sweden, August 19 - 23, 2005.
Theme of the Conference is "The Secular and the sacred - exploring a spirituality for our time". Main lecturers are poet and writer Ylva Eggehorn from Sweden, professor, PhD Leif Gunnar Engedal from Norway and Dr. Psychoanalyst Matti Hyrck from Finland.
The Conference is organized by ECPCC, European Council for Pastoral Care and Counselling. The Conference has 70 participants from 20 countries.
The President of ECPCC is Rev. Kirsti Aalto from Finland, vice- president is Fr. Pádraig Coleman from Ireland. [17 July 2005]

Top

ENHCC Constitution now translated into Finnish

Rev Kirsti Aato (ENHCC Committee member from Finnland) has translated the Constituiton into Finnish. The Constituion is currently available in English, Italian and Finnish.

[17 July 2005]

Top

Latvian Association Organises Conference

The Association of Professional Healthcare Chaplaincy of Latvia is organising a conference: "Spirituality and Health: the Integration of Professional Chaplaincy in Healthcare" which will take place in the Oncological Centre of Latvia, Riga from the 15 - 16 September 2005.Full information about the conference in Latvian and English is published on this website: www.net.id.lv/konference/conference.html

[2 July 2005]

Top

ENHCC becomes Dialogue Partner of EU Policy Advisor/p>

At the conclusion of the meeting that took place between Dr Michael Weninger (Policy Advisor on Dialogue with Religions, Churches and Humanism in the EU) and the ENHCC (represented by Fr. Stavros Kofinas, Coordinator, and Chaplain Anne Vandenhoeck, Network Committee Member) the ENHCC was asked to become a "dialogue partner" of the Policy Advisor. Dr Weninger called a meeting of all his "partners" to inform then of the summit of EU leaders and the new developments within the EU, particularly after the issues raised in relation to the EU Constitution. Representing the ENHCC at this deliberation was Chaplain Anne Vandenhoeck.

[Debriefing after the European Council in Brussels (June 16-17, 2005)]

[1 July 2005]

Top

nvitation to 9th Consultation of ENHCC in Lisbon, May 2006

Fr Nuno has now sent out the invitations to the 9th Consultation of the ENHCC which will take place in Lisbon, Portugal, 17-21 May 2006. [Letter] More information from

[30 June 2005]

Top

INTEGRATED CARE PATHWAYS CONFERENCE

Fifty four senior clinicians and managers working in the UK, Europe and the USA share their experiences of implementing Integrated Care Pathways in their organisation. The conference will be held at Church House, Westminster in London 28-29 June 2005.

[More]

[26 June 2005]

Top

ENHCC COORDINATOR MEETS WITH EU OFFICIALS

Anne Vandenhoeck & Fr Stavros

At the end of June 2005, Fr Stavros and Anne Vandenhoeck went to Brussels to meet with officials of the European Union. Very profitable meetings were held with: Dr Michael Weniger (Policy Advisor to the President of the EU, The Honourable Jose Manuel Barroso, and Chairman of the EU Group of Concerning Dialogue with Religion, Churches and Humanism); with Margaritis Schinas (Director of the Office of the Commissioner of Public Health, Pavlos Kyrpianou); and Dr Antoios Trakatellis MD (Vice-President of the EU Parliament).
A full report of these meetings will follow.

[Document presented to the EU Officials about the Network]

[24 June 2005]

Top

Working Group on Bioethics and Biotechnology
(Council of European Churches)

ENHCC receives papers from the Working Group on Bioethics and Biotechnology of the Church and Society Commission of the Council of European Churches. Rev Kirsti Aalto from Finland (one of the network committee members) is a member of the Working Group. [Summary of the meeting held 15-16 April 2005]

[24 June 2005]

Spirituality and health Conference in Latvia

The Association of Professional Healthcare Chaplaincy of Latvia is organising a Conference on "Spirituality and Health: Integration of Professional Chaplaincy in Healthcare" which will be held in Riga, the capital of Latvia, 15-16 September 2005.

[ More ]

[24 May 2005]

Top

ENHCC Commitee member Anne Vandenhoeck has joined the Advisory Board of PlainViews

Plainviews ( www.plainviews.org ) is an electronic magazine for health care chaplains. It is published by the Health Care Chaplaincy
( www.healthcarechaplaincy.org ), a multi-faith center for pastoral care, education, and research in New York.

[15 May 2005]

Top

BUILDING BRIDGES BETWEEN AMERICAN AND EUROPEAN CHAPLAINCIES

STREAMS IN THE DESERT

The annual conference for US - chaplains in Albuquerque, New Mexico, April 2005

Two of the major organisations for professional chaplains in the USA held their annual conference together in Albuquerque in April. The ACP (Association for Professional Chaplains,
( www.professionalchaplains.org/ ) and the NACC (National Association for Catholic Chaplains, ( www.nacc.org/ ) were the hosts for more then 1300 chaplains gathering in the desert of New Mexico. Participants could choose from a broad range of pre- conference workshops, plenary sessions and conference workshops. Anne Vandenhoeck, committee member of the European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy, attended the conference and represented the Network. She brought greetings from Fr. Stavros Kofinas, coordinator of the ENHCC, to the conference in Albuquerque. Anne met with representatives of APC and NACC. Both parties agreed that the North American and European Chaplaincies can learn from each other. The necessary first steps are taken to start building bridges of communication and cooperation. To be continued!! The ENHCC's committee is grateful for welcoming its representative in New Mexico.[11 May 2005]

Top

Letter of Sympathy to the Roman Catholic Church on the occasion of the death of Pope John Paul II

Most Rev. Javier LOZANO B.
Archbishop Emeritus of Zacatecas
The Pontifical Council for Health Pastoral Care,
Via della Conciliazione, 3 - 00120
Vatican City
ITALY

Most Reverend Javier Lozano,

Upon the repose of Pope John Paul II, allow me to express my sympathy on behalf of all the participants of the European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy.

Most of all the Roman Catholic health care chaplaincy organizations in Europe participate in the ENHCC. They have been very constructive in forming a well-established pastoral ministry in their own countries and have been an essential part of forming the European Network. They are truly a witness to the visionary guidance Pope John Paul had in the area of pastoral concern.

I am sure that his visionary presence will be greatly missed, but I am equally sure that his memory will continue to provide the guidance in administrating the Pontifical Council of Health Care.

May his memory be eternal.

Sincerely,

Rev. Dr. Stavros Kofinas
Coordinator of the European Network of Healthcare Chaplaincy
(Representative of the Ecumenical Patriarchate)>
[3 April 2005]

Top

Fr Stavros Kofinas, Coordinator of the network announces the new ENHCC Library

On 1 April 2005 Fr Stavros wrote to all the participants announcing that a new section of the Network website has been launched:

"I would like to announce that a special page has been created on the ENHCC website entitled “The European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy Library”. Our new “Library” will include articles and abstracts of articles that are related to our work. You can find the Library pages here: www.eurochaplains.org/enhcc_library/ One can also click the “Library” Button on the left hand row of buttons on any page.

Editing the new “Library” will be Anne Vandenhoek of Belgium, who serves on the ENHCC Network Committee. She will be available to answer any further questions about the new “Library” and accept your contributions. All proposals (according to the instructions in the Library pages) to include articles should be sent to: "

[More]

[1 April 2005]

Top

To the
Participants of the Annual Conference of the
Association of Professional Chaplains and the
National Association of Catholic Chaplains

Dear Fellow Chaplains,

On behalf of the participants of the European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy, allow me to greet all of you who are participating in the Annual Conference in Albuquerque, New Mexico, co-sponsored by the APC and the National Association of Catholic Chaplains. Our Network is composed of 31 ecclesiastical and national health care chaplaincy associations from 25 European countries. Its purpose is to share and learn from each other, to develop professional guidelines and to promote a high quality standard of health care chaplaincy.

The theme of your conference, “Streams in the Desert – a call to professional renewal” truly touches on a basic concern that all of us have, which is the restoration and transformation of our personal and professional identity. Your theme brings to mind the early Christian ascetics of the desert of Egypt, who were considered to be the main “therapists” of their time. Their personal solitude was counter-balanced with the acceptance and understanding of their fellow brothers and sisters, providing a sense of solidarity. In them, we see that the “call to renewal” was a daily challenge. It was not self-centered but was dependant on their reliance on God's grace, which continually provided streams of blessings, transforming their human identity into new beings, beings that expressed God's philanthropy.

Through our “European experience” of chaplaincy, we in the Network have realized that there must be a counter-balance between the solitude found in our individual chaplaincies and the acceptance and understanding of our brothers and sisters who minister in the countries around us. We have realized that we cannot remain comfortable and self-sufficient in our aloneness. For, this only causes a barrier in developing a true sense of pastoral identity and renewal.

Although America and Europe are separated by the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean, we all must be careful not to become comfortable in the solitude of our own worlds. It is our hope that the chaplaincies of America and those in Europe can begin to understand and learn from one another in a creative and transforming way, broadening our sense of personal and professional identity

It is our prayer that God will provide the streams of grace upon all of those who take part in your most noteworthy conference, allowing for all of you to fulfil the inner transformation and renewal necessary to continue in God's service. We here in Europe assure you that you are not alone in your desert. We are with you in spirit, remaining in constant prayer for your well-being.

Sincerely,

Rev. Dr. Stavros Kofinas
Coordinator of the European Network of Healthcare Chaplaincy
(Representative of the Ecumenical Patriarchate)[29 March 2995]

Top

Science in Society Forum

Read an account of the Science in Society Forum organised by the European Commission in Brussels, 9-11 March 2005 [Text]

[17 March 2005]

Top

DATE FIXED FOR 9TH CONSULTATION OF ENHCC

After consultation with participants in the Network the date for the 9th Consultation in Lisbon, Portugal has been fixed as 17-21 May 2006.

[Coordinator's Letter]

[Consultation page]

Top

Day Conference for the Hospital Chaplains of the Church of Greece

On the 30th of October 2004, the Church of Greece held a one-day conference for priests who serve in hospitals under its administrative ecclesiastical jurisdiction. The Standing Synodical Committee for Special Pastoral Issues organized the event. The theme of the conference was “The Philanthropy of the Church and the Philanthropy of God”. About 100 hundred Orthodox priests attended the conference.

Opening the conference, Metrolitan Efstathios of Sparta, President of the Standing Committee relayed the blessings of the Archbishop of the Church of Greece Christodoulos, who was not able to attend due to unexpected obligations that forced him to change his schedule. In a written message, the Archbishop stated the importance of chaplaincy in the area of health care and the devotion that each chaplain needs to have in order to provide spiritual care to the ill.

Taking part in the conference was the Rev. Dr. Stavros Kofinas, Coordinator of the European Network of Healthcare Chaplaincy. Father Kofinas spoke on “Approaching one's self and one another through Philanthropy.” He stated that “philanthropy” must not be limited to an “act” or a “service” but that it is a way of life, a witness of our participation in God's eternal Kingdom.

Other presentations were made regarding the place of health care chaplaincy in the Church's history (Prof. Efstathiades of the School of Medicine) and particularly in modern times (Fr. Nektarios of the St. Savas Anti-Cancer Hospital). These presentations showed how vital chaplaincy has been within the framework of the hospital setting both in the past and the present.

In the open discussion that followed the presentations, the chaplains all emphasised the need for the support from the administrative body of the Church. The issue of filling of vacancies was also discussed. All hospitals have the potential to create positions for hospital chaplains, but even if these positions have not been made, the Church assigns priests to these hospitals, as an extension of the ministry of a nearby parish. The greatest problem of providing adequate spiritual care does not seem to be the hospitals under the Ministry of Health but those that are “private” institutions.

The Archdiocese of Athens announced that it is now forming a program for “lay volunteer assistants”. These volunteers will assist the chaplain in meeting the great needs for social support during hospitalisation. The Charity Department of the Archdiocese also re-edified said that it is open to providing contribution to patients in terms of their material needs (clothing, etc.).

Concluding the event, Metropolitan Efstatios of Sparta reassured the attending clergy that The Standing Synodical Committee for Special Pastoral Issues would review all the issues that were raised. [28 November 2004]

Top

The 2nd Edinburgh International Festival of Middle Eastern Spirituality and Peace

From Monday 14 February – Sunday 6 March 2005 the 2nd Annual Edinburgh International Festival of Middle Eastern Spirituality and Peace will bring together artists, scholars, grassroots spiritual activists, and speakers from the Sufi, Druze, Baha'i, Ismaili, Zoroastrian and other lesser known spiritual traditions, in addition to representatives of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. More generally, all of the principal faith and spiritual traditions of Scotland are being invited to participate in this spiritual, cultural, and educational festival of peace and understanding. The Festival is jointly organized by the Edinburgh International Centre for World Spiritualities, EICWS, and the Edinburgh Institute for Advanced Learning, EIAL, and with the support of many other organizations.

The Festival positively affirms the diversity contained within the religious and spiritual traditions of the Middle East, as well as those here in Scotland, in justice and equality. The Festival takes no fixed position on any political, ethical or cultural question. We intend rather to create a forum in which we can listen to one another more deeply and learn with a more open mind and heart. The emphasis of the Festival is on spirituality, and on spiritual, cultural, and educational approaches to peace and understanding.

The Festival will bring together at least three different kinds of presentations. First, we hope to learn from each other about our shared traditions, as well as those that form the unique voice of any one of us. Second, we will hear from those who have been active in peacemaking on a spiritual basis on the ground in the Middle East. Third, we invite participants to share in the musical and devotional spiritual practice presented, in order to gain an experiential view of the traditions we discuss. Simply knowing facts (or presumed facts) about another does not become real meeting without such an experience.

Programme

[22 November 2004]

Top

To the Participants of the Conference of Roman Catholic Hospital Chaplaincy in Germany,
Magdeburg, Germany.

24th – 26th November 2004

Dear Fellow Chaplains,

On behalf of all the participants of the European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy, allow me to greet you upon the embankment of the Conference of Roman Catholic Hospital Chaplaincy in Germany that is to take place in Magdeburg, Germany.

The theme of your conference, "The profile of hospital chaplaincy in the future on the background of short-stay patients", addresses one of the major difficulties we face today in pastoral health care. It not only concerns itself with the spiritual care that is appropriate and necessary for the short stay patient's recovery, but it also brings up the question of the role and identity of the hospital chaplain and how he functions within and without the hospital. The growing amount of short-term patients is a motivation for the chaplain not to remain isolated. The pastor must be even more accessible, approachable, direct, and must serve as a bridge between the ecclesiastical and medical community of the hospital and the ecclesiastical community of the parish.

The Roman Catholic Chaplaincy of Germany has a sound history providing the foundation needed to encounter all the challenges of the post-modern world of healthcare. Its participation in the European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy over the past years has proven that it holds the strong conviction that it cannot remain isolated and that it strongly believes in building the necessary bridges of communication within the community at large. For this reason, your participation in the ENHCC is highly regarded by all of its participants.

May your Conference be most successful so that you can continue in offering us the knowledge and means necessary to improve chaplaincy throughout Europe.

Sincerely,

Rev. Dr. Stavros Kofinas
Coordinator of the European Network of Healthcare Chaplaincy
(Representative of the Ecumenical Patriarchate)[19 November 2004]

Top

Italian Text of Constitution to be published

Fr Angelo Brusco has translated the Constitution of ENHCC into Italian. The text will appear in the next issue of the magazine "Insieme per servire" (n. 61, July-September 2004).

[6 October 2004]

Top

Conference of Roman Catholic Chaplains of Germany to meet

The Conference of Roman Catholic Hospital Chaplaincy in Germany, consisting of delegates from 27 dioceses will hold a meeting in Magdeburg, Germany. The meeting will be held the 24th – 26th November 2004.

The main issue will be "The profile of hospital chaplaincy in the future on the background of short-stay patients". The question will be where the patients can be met when they are only in hospital a short time. Where can pastoral care take place?

Conference of Roman Catholic Hospital Chaplaincy in Germany
Konferenz Katholische Krankenhausseelsorge in Deutschland

Thomas Hiemenz
Katholischer Krankenhausverband Deutschlands
79004 Freiburg
GERMANY

E-mail:

Website: www.kkvd.de

[6 October 2004]

Top

Finnish chaplains prepare for Annual Conference

Chaplains in Finland are preparing for their annual conference. Rev Kirsti Aalto, the Director of Hospital Chaplaincy of the Lutheran Church in Finland writes: "We have 92 participants on the list. The theme of the meeting is ... "unto the third and fourth generations"... (Exodus 20: 5). The place is Riihimäki, a small town, one hour from Helsinki, the date August 24 - 26.

[31 July 2004]

[Photographs and Greetings to the Conference]

Top

Ethnicity online helps cultural awareness in healthcare

An excellent online resource, has been created in the United Kingdom intended to help broaden awareness of the needs of ethnic groups using healthcare services - as well as the needs of healthcare staff from ethnic minorities.

Ethnicity online is funded by by the National Health Service and arose out of an initiative in the Cambridge University Clinical School that hoped to better educate trainee doctors in how to treat all of their patients with the dignity they deserve.

The site provides information about diet, religious practice, death, contraception and many more subjects - so far for a limited selection of ethnic and faith groups, although ethnicity online is now in a second stage of development and plans to add much more. A major challenge facing those working in healthcare all over Europe is to understand how ethnic differences affect the perception of illness, the intimate personal interactions necessary for clinical practice and the delivery of healthcare.

18 July 2004]

Top

"THE DANCE OF LIFE - BETWEEN DESIRE AND HAPPINESS"/p>

Norway invites healthcare chaplains from Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Norway to The Nordic Healthcare Chaplaincy Conference 25-28 August 2004, to be held in the town Horten, at the west side of the Oslofjord. neasrby is the little village åsgårdstrand home of the world famous Norwegian painter Edvard Munch. [More]

[15 June 2004]

Top

To the Participants of the
“2nd INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE “BUILDING OF AN ICU INTERDISCIPLINARY TEAM”
LIMITS OF THE MODERN MEDICINE COMMUNICATION AND CARE OF TERMINAL ICU PATIENTS”

On behalf of the participants of the European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy, allow me to greet your Conference.

In one of his homilies, St. John Chrysostom tells us that there are not superior of inferior talents but only different talents, which are a gift of the Holy Spirit. He encourages all to work together in harmony so that the Body of Christ be glorified in unity.

Your Conference expresses this effort because it sees the need that we all work together in tending to those we care for. This has always been deeply rooted in your Orthodox Christian tradition. Among those who serve on your team is the chaplain. His role is vital because of the spiritual care he offers.

In conveying my wishes, I want you to know that you are not alone in your efforts. The European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy which brings together all the chaplaincies of Europe, working together as a team, is supporting you in your efforts. Your Church's participation in the Network has been beneficial to us all.

May your deliberations be successful,

Sincerely,

Rev. Dr. Stavros Kofinas
Coordinator of the European Network of Healthcare Chaplaincy
(Representative of the Ecumenical Patriarchate)

[12 June 2004]

Top

2nd INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE “BUILDING OF AN ICU INTERDISCIPLINARY TEAM”
LIMITS OF THE MODERN MEDICINE COMMUNICATION AND CARE OF TERMINAL ICU PATIENTS

Stara Zagora Bulgaria 23th-25th June 2004The meaning of modern healthcare practice, including high-tech intensive care medicine, is to cure physical trauma, injury and pain, as well as social, psychological and spiritual problems and sufferings of each patient and his family. The only one solution of this immediate task of modern medicine is the building of an ICU interdisciplinary team, which integrates efforts of many different healthcare providers: physicians, nurses, social workers, psychologists, chaplains, volunteers. Purposes of course:

To identify and address the physical, psychological, spiritual and practical burdens of illness

To identify and address the limits of modern medicine.To indicate the great importance of:

Effective management of pain and other distressing symptoms, while incorporating psychosocial and spiritual care according to patient and family needs, values, beliefs and culture.
Both patient and family must be prepared for the dying process and for death, when it is anticipated.

Programme and ParticipantsMore Information:
THRACIAN UNIVERSITY MEDICAL FACULTY
11, Armejska Street
6003 Stara Zagora
Tel: +359 42 2819 391
+359 888 937439
Fax: +359 42 600 705
E-mail:

Top

The Society for Intercultural Pastoral Care and Counselling - SIPCC

announces the 17th International Seminar on Intercultural Pastoral Care and Counselling taking place in Kecskemet, Hungary,5-10 September 2004:
Young People and the Experience of Violence-Implications for Pastoral Care and Counselling
www.sipcc.org

[3 January 2004]

Top

Major Conference on Spiritual Care held by the Scottish Executive Health Department

"A Seamless Transition"

Around 200 people took part in a major conference on Spiritual Care in Scotland under the title "A Seamless Transition" on 26th November 2003. They came from a variety of backgrounds with many from chaplaincy, management and clinical areas. The purpose was to chart progress in the two years since the initial report which launched the Spiritual Care Guidelines Process, and the year and a bit from the production of the Scottish Executive Health Department Letter HDL(2002)76 2002 “Spiritual Care in NHS Scotland”. Read a Report about the conferenceA graphic artist was present. His cartoons illustrated salient points and were soon adorning the walls.

[ See Artwork ]

[12 December 2003]

Top

Network Coordinator writes to Conference of European Churches

November 12, 2003

Participants of the Conference of European Churches (CEC)
on the Issues of Bioethics and Biotechnology
c/o Richard Fischer
Executive Secretary of The Commission of Church and Society
Strasbourg Office of the Conference of European Churches

Dear Dr. Fischer,

On behalf of the participants of the European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy, which is composed of representatives from all the Churches and chaplaincy organizations of some 25 European countries, allow me to greet you upon the embankment of your Conference on the Issues of Bioethics and Biotechnology.

It is without question that the value of human life in this post-modern era is an issue that we must all address. We who are chaplains and involved in the area of pastoral health care are on the front line is dealing with this issue. Within the healthcare settings patients, relatives and staff will approach the chaplain in order to answer the crucial ethical questions concerning their care. Facing these crucial questions, at the last our Consultation held in Turku, Finland, the issue of bioethics was stated in the newly adopted European Standards for Health Care Chaplaincy.

The Conference of European Churches has been and remains to be a main point of reference for ecumenical dialogue in Europe. Following its example, networks and organizations like ours are motivated to work in breaking down the barriers that separate us. It is our hope that your Conference will build one bridge in the dialogue amongst the Churches of Europe, while at the same time offering those of us who serve in the area of healthcare the resources needed in answering the question posed in your theme. With respect,Rev. Dr. Stavros KofinasCoordinator of the European Network of Healthcare Chaplaincy
(Representative of the Ecumenical Patriarchate)

top

New Chaplaincy Guidance Documents launched in London.

At a special meeting hosted in London by the Multi Faith Group for Healthcare Chaplaincy on 5 November 2003 two important documents were launched which will have far reaching effects on how healthcare chaplains operate in England and Wales. Guidance about chaplaincy is given to health authorities in NHS Chaplaincy: Meeting the Spiritual and Religious needs of patients and staff, while training and development issues are addressed in Caring for the Spirit: a strategy for the chaplaincy and spiritual healthcare workforce.

More about these documents on the MFGHC Website

[18 November 2003]

Top

Greetings to the Network from the President of the Pontifical Council for Health Pastoral Care

Vatican City, 12 November 2003

Dear Rev. Dr. Stavros,

In reference to your letter of November 1, 2003, addressed to me and all the participants at the XVIIIth International Conference of the Pontifical Council for Health Pastoral Care, to be held in the Vatican on November 13-14-15, 2003, on the topic DEPRESSION, I would like to thank you for your kind words of encouragement and prayers for the success of the Conference.

As you well know disease and suffering have no boundaries, they touch all people irrespective of their faith, race or age. And as such, Health Care Ministry brings together the combined efforts of both the civil, religious and private sector, to be at the service of the human person and his life.

As Christians we cannot but strive and encourage each other to witness to the call of Christ, and learn from his own example taking care of the Sick and Suffering brothers and sisters.

Please convey my appreciation to all the participants in the European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy.Sincerely

+Javier Cardinal Lozano Barragán

President of the Pontifical Council for Health Pastoral Care

top

Gunilla Malmborg elected as Chairperson of the Association of Health Care Chaplains in the Church of Sweden (SKAIS)

Deaconess Gunilla Malmborg has recently been elected Chairperson of the Association of Health Care Chaplains in the Church of Sweden (SKAIS). Replying to congratulations sent to her on behalf of the Network by Coordinator Fr Stavros, Gunilla writes:

Dear Fr. Stavros Kofinas, Thank you so much for your E-mails congratulating me on my election as Chairperson of the Association of ther Health Care Chaplains in the Church of Sweden. I apologize for not replying earlier.I appreciate the detailed information you have given me about the European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy, which I read with great interest. Thank you for supplying addresses of the other members of the Network Committee. When I have had time to settle in my new role, I will feel more in a position to communicate with them on a regular basis.Yours truly, Gunilla Malmborg, deaconess

12 November 2003

top

Norwegian Healthcare Chaplains Conference

Rev Eirik Os, the Norwegian representation on the Network has written to say that the Norwegian health care chaplains had their annual conference in in the far North, in Tromsø in early November 2003.

[Conference Report by Jens Boge]

[8 December 2003]

Top

Coordinator writes to the President of the Pontifical Council for Health Pastoral Care about ENHCC

November 1, 2003

Most Rev. Javier LOZANO B.
Archbishop Emeritus of Zacatecas
President of the Pontifical Council for Health Pastoral Care,
Via della Conciliazione, 3 - 00120
Vatican City, Italy

Your Eminence,

Knowing the importance of your task as President of the Pontifical Council for Health Pastoral Care and the role that the Pontifical Council plays in the formation of Christian ministry throughout Europe and the world, this letter is written to inform you of the European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy, of which I serve as Coordinator.

Since 1990, European chaplains have been coming together every two years to exchange their experiences in healthcare chaplaincy. Essentially, the ENHCC was formed at the 6th Consultation that took place at the Orthodox Academy of Crete in November of 2000. Based on the “Cretan Declaration”, the Network is the largest body composed of official representatives from all the Christian denominations and chaplaincy organizations of Europe, which provide pastoral care in various health care facilities. The Network aims at mutual sharing and understanding both on a religious, cultural and organizational level. It brings together the various chaplaincy experiences of all the health care systems in Europe.

The last Consultation took place in Turku, Finland in June of 2002. At this historic meeting, 40 official representatives from 21 European countries adopted the European Standards for Health Care Chaplaincy. These Standards state that chaplaincy provides pastoral services in a variety of health care settings, ministering to the existential, spiritual and religious needs of those who suffer and those who care for them. The Standards describe the organization and development of chaplaincy services, the area and activity of chaplains, their education, formation and supervision. There is an emphasis on how Faiths and chaplaincy services can be a vital resource in theological, pastoral, and ethical matters. Special focus is given to the areas of integrated spiritual development and bioethics.

The Network's web page (www.eurochaplains.org) has a full description of all the countries, faiths, and organizations, the two past consultations held in Crete and Finland, and the European Standards for Health Care Chaplaincy.
As you will notice on the Contact page, twelve Roman Catholic Chaplaincy Organizations have attended previous consultations of the ENHCC. In addition to these organizations, the Roman Catholic Church is also involved in many European national ecumenical associations that deal with pastoral health care.

The participation of the Roman Catholic Church in the European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy is very valuable. Your experience in the area of pastoral health care has provided a source of comfort for many, not only in Europe but also throughout the world.

I am sure that you will agree that we must all work together in this vital area of concern, learning from each other so that the care we offer will be improved. Because of this, it would be very beneficial if your office and the Network established a line of direct communication so that we can share thoughts and avenues in providing a closer working relationship with all the Chaplaincies of Europe.

In viewing your web site, I noticed that your International Conference will be taking place in Rome this coming November. In a first step in establishing communication between your Committee and the ENHCC, I am sending a greeting to the participants of your Conference. Perhaps this could be read at your Conference.

Further steps could be putting each other as links on our respective web sites and including your events on our news page.

As the world gets smaller, it is important that we work together for the glory of God. With a firm hope that in the guidance of the Holy Spirit, on behalf of all the participants of the ENHCC, I hope in your favorable response to the European Network.

With my personal respect and our common love in our Lord,

Fr. Stavros Kofinas

Coordinator of the European Network of Healthcare Chaplaincy
(Representative of the Ecumenical Patriarchate)

Address:
Lycias 3
171 24 Nea Smyrni
Greece

Email:

Phones:
+30- 6944 573625 Fax: +30-210-9374217

Network Committee
Rev Kirsti Aalto Director of Hospital Chaplaincy
Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland
Rev Edward Lewis Hospital Chaplaincies Council
of the General Synod of the Church of England
Rev. Kathrin Jahns Conference for Hospital Chaplaincy
of the Evangelical Church in Germany
Chaplain Kathleen O'Connor Health Care Chaplaincy Board, Ireland
Chaplain Marlène Inauen lic phil
Co-president, Association of Catholic Health Care Chaplains
in German Speaking Switzerland
Rev Fred Coutts (webmaster)
Scottish Association of Chaplains in Healthcare (SACH)on of Chaplains in Healthcare (SACH)

Attached:

1. Roman Catholic Participation in The European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy
2. Standards for Heath Care Chaplaincy in Europe
3. Greeting to the International Conference (Nov. 2003)

Top

Greetings to International Conference of the Pontifical Council for Health Pastoral Care

November 1, 2003

Most Rev. Javier LOZANO B.
Archbishop Emeritus of Zacatecas
President of the Pontifical Council for Health Pastoral Care,
Via della Conciliazione, 3 - 00120
Vatican City, Italy

Your Eminence,On behalf of all the participants in the European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy, allow me to greet all those who will be participating in the International Conference of the Pontifical Council for Health Pastoral Care that will take place at the Holy See of Rome.
For many centuries Europe has been blessed with the care you have provided in so many of the areas of pastoral health care. You have truly been a witness to the calling Christ made to His Apostles when He said, Proclaim the good news, The kingdom of heaven has come near. Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. You received without payment; give without payment. (Matthew 10:7-8). By doing so, not only has your flock been blessed with the love of the Holy Spirit, but also all of us who are involved in chaplaincy and in the field of pastoral health care and education at large have been inspired by your work.
The theme of your International Conference is most significant. We live in a world which is downcast in its suffering, a world in which is there is despondency and very little hope. Man's sighing comes before he eats and his roaring is poured out like the waters (Job 3: 23-24). Yet within our suffering we can sense the mystery of God!
Those of us who have been given the responsibility to proclaim the mystery of God's Grace know the depths and difficulties of depression and how it can hinder man in his spiritual growth. It is our hope that your Conference will provide all of us with new inspiration in dealing with these difficulties.
May our Lord bless you in every way so that your Conference is successful. Allow me to take this advantage to thank you all for the hours of self-sacrificing service, for your fruitful ministry, and for the rays of hope which are shown throughout the world by your witness.

Sincerely,

Rev. Dr. Stavros Kofinas
Coordinator of the European Network of Healthcare Chaplaincy
(Representative of the Ecumenical Patriarchate)

Address:
Lycias 3
171 24 Nea Smyrni
Greece

Email:

Phones:
+30- 6944 573625 Fax: +30-210-9374217

Top

Spiritual Care Books Published in Bulgaria

Dr Jordan Vuchkov, an Anaesthetist who works at the University Hospital in Stara Zagora, Bulgaria has published two books: "Medicine and Religion" and "The ICU Patient". Jordan attended the Turku Consultation of European Network of Healthcare Chaplaincy, representing the Orthodox Church of Bulgaria. For more information contact:

Abstract and Contents of the books

[29 October 2003]

Top

Orthodox Church Conference on Psychotherapy

The Metropolis of Thebes and Levadia of Greece held a international conference with the theme: "Christian Orthodox Theology and Psychotherapy - Convergences and Divergences"
Rev. Dr. Adamantios Avgoustidis (M.D.) (Representative to the ENHCC for the Church of Greece) and Rev. Dr. Stavros Kofinas, (Coordinator of the ENHCC – representing the Ecumenical Patriarchate) were on the organizing committee of the conference and also made presentations [More]

[1 November 2003]

Top

Training for Healthcare Chaplaincy in Sweden

Anders Höglund, the coordinator of Health Care Chaplaincy in the Church of Sweden, has made available their course plans for Training Healthcare Chaplains. (29 October 2003)
Course Description

[29 October 2003]

Top

"Pastoral Theology in Healthcare,
who cares anyway?"

This was the title of the Second Norman Autton Memorial Lecture, delivered by the Revd Dr Edward Morris BSc BD MTh
at St. Matthew's, Great Peter Street, Westminster, London SW1
Wednesday 22 October 2003.
Edward Morris is Whole-Time Chaplain to Hammersmith Hospitals NHS Trust In London. He is also Lecturer in Medical Ethics to the Post-Graduate Medical School of Imperial College University of London and Bishop's Adviser on Hospital Chaplaincy for the Kensington Episcopal Area. He was also a Senior Tutor at St. Stephen's House, Oxford.

Text of the Lecture

[25 October 2003]

Top

Coordinator sends greetings to Swiss chaplains

October 25, 2003

To The Chaplains of the Catholic and Protestant Associations of Health Care Chaplains in German Speaking Switzerland

Dear Fellow Chaplains,

On behalf of the representatives of the European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy, allow me to greet you upon the occasion of your annual conference. I am sure that your time together will be most productive and spiritually renewing.

Switzerland is a country that brings many people together in a spirit of international harmony. Being that you are in the heart of Europe, your country bears witness how different people can live and learn together, while preserving their own identity and traditions.

Your participation in the European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy has shown this in a very distinctive way, and for this we are all most grateful to you. It is also our honour that your Association is not only a participant in the Network, but an active member on the Network Committee.

May your Conference be filled with all of the blessings afforded in God's Grace, so that all of you will continue in the valuable ministry in the area of health care.

With respect,

Rev. Dr. Stavros Kofinas
Coordinator of the European Network of Healthcare Chaplaincy
(Representative of the Ecumenical Patriarchate)

The annual ecumenical conference for chaplains in German speaking Switzerland was held 27-28 October 2003. The title was "What is so wrong in feeling guilty?" and the speaker was Father Erhard Weiher Catholic Chaplain at University Hospital Mainz, Germany.

Top

Fr Stavros to speak at international conference

Fr Stavros, the Co-ordinator of the European Network of Healthcare Chaplaincy will be one of the speakers at a major international conference on the topic:Integrating Spirituality into Healthcare Practices:
Remembering the “Forgotten Dimension”

A multidisciplinary conference on spirituality and healthcare hosted by the School of Divinity and Religious Studies, University of Aberdeenwhich will be held 12th – 13th January 2004 at the University of Aberdeen, Scotland UK.

[11 October 2003]

Top

Finnish Hospital Chaplains Conference

The 2003 Finnish Hospital Chaplains conference was held in August at Kuopio.

[Pictures of the conference]

[11 October 2003]

Top

Coordinator sends greetings to Conference of Swedish Chaplains

September 30, 2003

To the Participants of the Swedish Conference of Health Care Chaplaincies

Dear Fellow Chaplains,

On behalf of all the chaplaincies that participate in the European Network of Health Care Chaplaincy, allow me greet you all, hoping that your Conference will be most productive in every way.

Sweden has played a vital role in shaping health care chaplaincy in Europe. It has always been a true expression of a sound theology and a well based pastoral clinical experience. The European Network is most grateful to the Health Care Chaplaincy of Sweden. For it t was the insightful vision of Rev. Sten Ludgren that brought chaplains together from all the Europe to consult on their experiences. His humbleness and deep respect for each and every chaplain, his eagerness to learn and his encouragement to continue in faith was and remains to be an inspiration to us all.

As you gather together in Sweden, remember that there are many others all over Europe who are serving in the area of health care chaplaincy. For only is unity can we minister to those who seek to be whole.

Praying that you will experience the unity and wholeness found in God's loving grace, I greet you,

With great respect,

Rev. Dr. Stavros Kofinas
Coordinator of the European Network of Healthcare Chaplaincy
(Representative of the Ecumenical Patriarchate)

[30 September 2003]

Top

Multi-faith Group launched in UK

The Multi-faith Group for Healthcare Chaplaincy (MFGHC) was officially launched in London on 25 June 2003. MFGHC seeks to advance multi-faith healthcare chaplaincy in England and Wales by:
facilitating a common understanding amongst Faith Groups, chaplaincy bodies and users
providing a means of consultation between Faiths
co-operating with healthcare and chaplaincy organisations, bodies and authorities.

At the same time the Department of Health published draft guidance on healthcare chaplaincy.www.mfghc.com

[8 July 2003]

Top

A First for Bulgaria

Modern intensive care medicine has the task to treat not only physical pain, but also social, psychological and spiritual suffers of critically ill patients and their relatives. This holistic treatment can best be delivered by building an ICU interdisciplinary team, which integrates efforts of different healthcare professionals - physician, nurses, social workers, chaplains. The Thracian University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria is about to run a course - the first in Bulgaria, with the aims to:

show the necessity of building an ICU interdisciplinary team define the role and tasks of team-members
improve on medicine education

Dr Jordan Vuchkov (who was one of the representatives at the Turku Consultation of the Network in 2002) writes: "This is the first scientific interdisciplinary course of its kind for Bulgaria. If any of our friends from the European Network of Healthcare Chaplaincy have questions, please contact me: "The Course takes place 28-31 May 2003

[19 May 2003]

top

Standards published in Finnish

The Finnish version of the Turku Standards appears in the annual Hospital Chaplaincy report of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland. For those who do not read Finnish, there are also photographs of the Turku Consultation in June 2002 together with the members of the network who met the Ecumenical Patriarch at the pre-consultation meeting in Istanbul in January 2002.

Read Standards in Finnish

Pre-Consultation meeting in Istanbul

[8 March 2003]

top

Standards Published in Italian

Fr Dr Angelo Brusco who is the Director of Centro Camilliano di Formazione in Verona and who attended the Turku Consultation has translated and published the European Standards for Healthcare Chaplaincy in magazine "Insieme per servire"Read Standards in Italian

[8 March 2003]

top

Chaplaincy in Czech Republic

Christine Pocock recently met Jitka KRAUSOVA, the General Secretary of the Ecumenical Council of Churches in the Czech Republic, when she visited the Churches Together in England office. Christine writes: "She was very keen to gain any information which would help the fledgling health care chaplaincy service in her country. I introduced her to the Eurochaplains website and suggested one or two names of members who might be able to help. She wanted information about basic training programmes, so I gave her some material from our Training and Development office.

I have heard that contacts across Europe have already been made and that her colleagues found the general training material very useful. She would now be grateful for more detailed information on actual training programmes, so if anyone can help, please do.

her E-mail address is:
her office address is: 370/5 Donska st.
Prague 10, 101 00
Czech Republic

She is a youthful, enthusiastic person and speaks excellent English. I guess we would want her or a chaplaincy colleague on board our euroboat.

Christmas Greetings

Christine

Rev Christine Pocock (Mrs)
Free Churches Secretary for Health Care Chaplaincy
27 Tavistock Square
LONDON WC1H 9HH

[23 December 2002]

top

Schweizerische Kirchenzeitung publishes the Turku Standards

The German language version of the European Standards for Healthcare Chaplaincy has been published in Schweizerische Kirchenzeitung (10/2003)the official newspaper for all those who work in the Swiss Catholic Church. Marlene Inauen, who who is a hospital chaplain in Zurich has also written about the Turku Consultation where she was the representative of the Catholic Hospital Chaplains in Swizerland.

Read Standards in German

[23 November 2002]

top

DEVELOPMENTS IN BULGARIA

On 7th November 2002 Dr Jordan Vuchkov from Bulgaria presented his research: "The joined responsibility of physician and chaplain for the treatment of critically ill patients in Intensive Care Units" at the medical scientific council in Sofia. Jordan has worked since 1998 on this project and research study. The aims being:1. To find Bulgarian and foreign language medical and theological books and articles, devoted to this medical, theological and social problem.2. To make an inquiry with 400 physicians/nurses and 100 critically ill patients into the place of spiritual values in Bulgarian hospitals, and the necessity of the spiritual care in Bulgaria.3. To make suggestions to the Health Ministry for a solution to the problem in Bulgaria.The next step is to prepare am introductory course: "The Creation of an Interdisciplinary therapeutic team in ICU" with participants: physician, nurse, chaplain, medical, nursing and theological students; psychologist. Head and leaders of the project are Assistant Professor Karakolew, Decan of the Medical Faculty to the Thracian University in Stara Zagora, Head of the Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care and Mr. Rudi Albisser from University of Luzern in Swizerland. All members of the medical scientific council agreed that these issues are new and important for patients, not only in ICU but in the entire hospital. They gave Jordan attention and support. Now he is waiting for the decision by government agency which regulates scientific ranks and titles in Bulgaria. If this Commission says yes, he says, "I will be a MD (medical doctor) working in the area of social medicine. That is very important not only for me, but for our society too." The European Standards are already published in a Bulgarian medical magazine "Healthcare Management", vol. 2, 2, 2002. [7 November 2002]

top

STANDARDS PRESENTED TO THE ECUMENICAL PATRIARCH

On the 21st of September 2002, the Coordinator of the ENHCC, Fr. Stavros Kofinas, presented Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew the official document of the European Standards for Health Care Chaplaincy. [More]

top

The October 2002 Issue of the Scottish Journal of Heathcare Chaplaincy contains an article by Yuri Zelentzov (the Salvation Army chaplain at the Practical & Research Centre for Paediatric HIV/AIDS in St. Petersburg, Russia) under the title of Rejected and Abandoned, Glimpses Over The Beige Painted Wall. Yuri gives us a moving personal insight into his work among children, teenagers and expectant mothers, mostly with HIV. He describes what the word 'chaplain' means to people, his daily work and experiences, the difficulties and the blessings. He concludes with a moving 'wish list' that illustrates the stark differences between Russian experiences of healthcare and those of many other countries. In the same issue of the Journal Fred Coutts writes about the use of electronic communication which has helped build the European network of Healthcare Chaplaincy and Fr Stavros (Co-ordinator of the Network) is welcomed as a consulting editor to the Journal. [More]

top

The Salvation Army Chaplaincy Centre at St Petersburg which cares for children with HIV/AIDS has launched a web-site to be used by children both for information and various activities. It is only in Russian now, but English and possible Norwegian is on the way.
You can find it at www.paediatricchaplaincy.spb.ru

top

"The Power of Evil and Goodness" was the theme for Hospital Chaplaincy Conference of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland, held in Pori August 20 - 22, 2002. The conference had 93 participants, all hospital chaplains, one guest from Sweden and Estonia. [More]

top

Rev Chris Levison (Healthcare Chaplaincy Training and Development Officer for Scotland) writes about the 7th Consultation of the Network in Turku in SACH Soundings, the newsletter of the Scottish Association of Chaplains in Healthcare [More]

top

Site menu:

Euro-Chaplaincy News

News 2002-2007

2006

2005

2004

2003

2002

All-Ukrainian Association of Pallaitive Care

Ensuring a caring, careful death for all

National Meeting of Association of Professional Chaplains

International Council on Pastoral Care and Counselling. 8th World Congress of ICPCC 2007

Northern Ireland Healthcare Chaplains Association

Establishment and development of palliative care in Ukraine

3rd Czech – Slovak Ecumenical Consultation for Healthcare Chaplains and Pastoral Workers

Coordinator sends greetings to Latvian Conference

Conference in Latvia

Death of Ton Hanrath

European Network of Homeless Health Workers

Recommendations on State, Religion, Secularity and Blasphemy

Church and Society Commission Update on European Affairs June 2007

Hospital Visiting Volunteers in Pécs, Hungary

ENHCC involvement in EU Palliative Care Meeting

Rev Naatan Hammer invites Representatives to the 10th Consultation of ENHCC in Tartu Estonia

Nordic Chaplains meet in Finalnd

Conference in Latvia August 21-22 2007

Visits to San Francisco and London

Updates from the Conference of European Churches

Network invited to participate in an EU meeting on Palliative Care in Europe

EUFAMI - 4th European Congress - Poland - September 2007

Fr Stavros writes to the President of the European Association of Palliative Care

Community Action on Health Services

December Debriefing Meeting after EU Summit

- Brussels, 18-12-2006

The Coordinator writes his thanks after Brussels Dialogue Seminar

Working Group on Bioethics

Complementary Spiritual Practices

ENHCC will feature in a forthcoming book about Chaplaincy>

Report about the Lisbon Consultation published in Switzerland

Czech – Slovak Consultation on Health Care Chaplaincy

Ukraine marks World Hospice and Palliative care Day

ENHCC to attend Brussels Seminar on Health and Social Care

Ukraine holds an Ecumentical Service for Palliative Care

Fr Stavros send greetings to Finnish Chaplains' Conference

Yunus Dudhwala interviewed in Amicus Health Magazine

The White Dove flies free...

The 18th Nordic Conference for Hospital Chaplains

Sermon in Commemoration of Florence Nightingale

Coordinator sends Greetings to Irish Chaplains

Conference on Religions and Violence

Hospital Chaplains meet in Strasbourg

Consent to the storage and use of embryos

Annual Canadian Chaplaincy Conference

Article about EU and ENHCC in PlainViews

Latvian Chaplaincy Conference

Network Committee meet in Istanbul>

Six faith groups in Britain warn against legalising assisted dying

Professional Standards from the Netherlands

Patenting of Stem cells

Coordinator sends Greetings to To the Participants of the Association of the Healthcare Chaplaincy of Latvia

Some ENHCC people at the10th European Conference for Pastoral Care and Counselling: Sigtua, Sweden

10th European Conference for Pastoral Care and Counselling

ENHCC Constitution now translated into Finnish

Latvian Association Organises Conference

ENHCC becomes Dialogue Partner of EU Policy Advisor/p>

nvitation to 9th Consultation of ENHCC in Lisbon, May 2006

INTEGRATED CARE PATHWAYS CONFERENCE

ENHCC COORDINATOR MEETS WITH EU OFFICIALS

Working Group on Bioethics and Biotechnology (Council of European Churches)

Spirituality and health Conference in Latvia

ENHCC Commitee member Anne Vandenhoeck has joined the Advisory Board of PlainViews

BUILDING BRIDGES BETWEEN AMERICAN AND EUROPEAN CHAPLAINCIES

STREAMS IN THE DESERT

Letter of Sympathy to the Roman Catholic Church on the occasion of the death of Pope John Paul II

Fr Stavros Kofinas, Coordinator of the network announces the new ENHCC Library

To the Participants of the Annual Conference of the Association of Professional Chaplains and the National Association of Catholic Chaplains

Science in Society Forum

DATE FIXED FOR 9TH CONSULTATION OF ENHCC

Day Conference for the Hospital Chaplains of the Church of Greece

The 2nd Edinburgh International Festival of Middle Eastern Spirituality and Peace

International Council on Pastoral Care and Counselling.
8th World Congress of ICPCC 2007

Working Group on Bioethics and Biotechnology
(Council of European Churches)

To the
Participants of the Annual Conference of the
Association of Professional Chaplains and the
National Association of Catholic Chaplains

To the Participants of the Conference of Roman Catholic Hospital Chaplaincy in Germany,
Magdeburg, Germany.

To the Participants of the
“2nd INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE “BUILDING OF AN ICU INTERDISCIPLINARY TEAM”
LIMITS OF THE MODERN MEDICINE COMMUNICATION AND CARE OF TERMINAL ICU PATIENTS”

2nd INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE “BUILDING OF AN ICU INTERDISCIPLINARY TEAM”
LIMITS OF THE MODERN MEDICINE COMMUNICATION AND CARE OF TERMINAL ICU PATIENTS

"Pastoral Theology in Healthcare,
who cares anyway?"