Renamed Roswell Park Program Supports Patients of All Faiths, Spiritual Traditions

BUFFALO, N.Y. — Two decades of support, and a new name to follow. For 20 years, the Department of Pastoral Care has supported the mission of Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center through its integrative, interfaith approach to wellness, and providing ministry and care for the spirit of patients of all faith traditions. Reaching such a milestone in 2019, the Department of Pastoral Care has been renamed the Department of Spiritual Care.

“Cancer can be a grueling journey. But spirituality, regardless of your faith, or your beliefs, can be a tremendous and powerful aid as you journey through this process,” Candace S. Johnson, PhD, President and CEO of Roswell Park, notes in a video created to mark the anniversary. “We welcome and give comfort to everyone."

Director Beth Lenegan, PhD, says what started as a small team has blossomed into numerous individuals who bring ministry to patients, their families, and staff.  The name change was implemented to better describe the diverse programming and the team that provides to patients, family, and staff, whether they are grounded in faith traditions, religion, or channel their spirituality through other means, such as music or nature.

Dr. Lenegan heads up a team that includes four additional chaplains, a secretary, a Life Recorded coordinator, countless volunteers, and a community clergy made up of nearly 40 faith leaders from different cultural and religious traditions.

Supported in part by donations to Roswell Park, Spiritual Care sponsors numerous programs throughout the year such as the Read to Me, Patient Retreat, and Life Recorded.

The office and meditation and prayer room are located on the first floor of the Main Hospital, through the Medical Research Complex bridge. The meditation and prayer room is open 24 hours a day, every day. For a full list of services and programs, see roswellpark.org/spiritual-care.

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Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center is a community united by the drive to eliminate cancer’s grip on humanity by unlocking its secrets through personalized approaches and unleashing the healing power of hope. Founded by Dr. Roswell Park in 1898, it is the only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center in Upstate New York. Learn more at www.roswellpark.org, or contact us at 1-800-ROSWELL (1-800-767-9355) or ASKRoswell@RoswellPark.org.