I have worked in six different hospices as chaplain being involved with over 2, 500 patients' life and death. The word chaplain was quite new to the staff, patients and their families and, therefore I had to explain what they should expect. Religion and medicine still in Japan cannot be incorporated, and when a religious person had to work together in the medical world with the doctors and nurses, I felt that there were problems that had to be confronted. I would like to convey the role and manner of a chaplain gained through my daily experience in the hospice. I. Being involved with the patients. 1. Although most patients have their family religion, they seldom have their own religion. When they are suffering and in such state of mind, they pray to God for help. They are slightly concerned about any specific religion. (1) To help them to create an image of consolation. (2) Religion that provides hope. 2. Consideration for those who do not wish to be forced to any religion. 3. To create a mutual trust so that they may share their physical pain. II. Being involved with the team workers. 1. Effort to put oneself positively on the team. 2. Attitude of involvement in spiritual psychological and religious care in general. 3. To be a good advisor to the staff. 4. Consideration for exchanging of information. 5. Correct understanding towards other jobs and the manner towards other occupations. III. Being a chaplain 1. One's own care being in a solitary position as chaplain. 2. Studying the technique of religious care. Understanding one's work as chaplain. 3. Understanding one's work as chaplain.
