Chaplain care & Spiritual Support
GTMC is committed to provide chaplain care and spiritual support (both in-person and virtually via Zoom) to members during significant life transitions, including coming of age, marriage, starting a family, making healthcare decisions, experiencing illness, bereavement, and dying. Our services are designed to offer comfort and guidance through these pivotal moments.
Whether individuals are new to Buddhism or seasoned practitioners, the chaplain service meets people where they are, helping them navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and compassion.
In addition to spiritual care, the program fosters a sense of community by connecting participants with other practitioners and chaplains. It provides opportunities for personal growth, ongoing learning about Buddhist teachings, and engagement in service activities that benefit both individuals and the wider community. Through these offerings, the Buddhist chaplain service promotes holistic well-being, spiritual development, and a supportive network grounded in the values of empathy and understanding.
Support is available in various forms, such as ceremonies, one-to-one visits, personal rituals, and consultations for health care planning. Each offering is tailored to meet the needs of individuals and families as they navigate important life changes.
GTMC Staff Buddhist Chaplains:
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Chaplain Pearl (In-person and Virtual)
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Chaplain Khema (Virtual only)
For those interested in learning more about specific ceremonies performed by GTMC, further information can be found on the Ceremonies page. Additionally, members seeking other forms of pastoral care are encouraged to contact the GTMC office to discuss their needs with monastics or chaplains.
It is important to note that GTMC monastics and chaplains generously volunteer their time to support the sangha. This program is offered free of charge. Donations are warmly welcomed to support our chaplains and GTMC in serving the community, funding charitable activities, and allowing the Dharma to continue flourishing.
Resources and Additional Support
To further support individuals and families navigating significant life events, we have compiled a selection of recommended readings and helpful online resources. These materials are organized by topic to assist you in finding relevant information and guidance.
Suggested Reading: Coming of Age
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"Taking Our Places: The Buddhist Path to Truly Growing Up" by Norman Fischer This book explores the journey of personal growth from a Buddhist perspective, offering insight and encouragement for those transitioning into new stages of life).
Suggested Reading: Marriage
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"Into The Garden: A Wedding Anthology: Poetry and Prose on Love and Marriage" by Robert Hass and Stephen Mitchell A thoughtful collection of poetry and prose celebrating the themes of love and marriage.
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"Hand Wash Cold: Care Instructions for an Ordinary Life" by Karen Maezen Miller This book offers practical wisdom and gentle reflections on nurturing love and mindfulness within daily married life.
Suggested Reading: Illness, Bereavement, and Dying
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"Knocking on Heaven's Door: The Path to a Better Way of Death" by Katy Butler -- A compassionate exploration of end-of-life care and the choices faced by individuals and families.
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"Final Gifts" by Maggie Callahan -- This work provides moving stories and practical advice for those supporting loved ones through terminal illness and death.
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"Being with Dying: Cultivating Compassion and Fearlessness in the Presence of Death" by Joan Halifax -- A guide to approaching death and dying with mindfulness, courage, and compassion, both for caregivers and those facing loss.
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"Loving Kindness Meditation for Caregivers" from "The Kindness Handbook: A Practical Companion" by Sharon Salzberg -- This meditation offers supportive practices for caregivers, fostering resilience and compassion.
Useful Websites
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MN Network of Hospice and Palliative Care -- A resource for information on hospice and palliative care services in Minnesota.
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Tom Golden's Crisis, Grief and Healing -- An online resource providing support and guidance for those experiencing crisis, grief, or loss.
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Honoring Choices Minnesota -- This site offers tools and resources to help individuals and families make informed healthcare decisions.
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Center for Grief, Loss and Transition -- An organization dedicated to supporting those experiencing grief and loss through counseling and educational resources.
Mutual Support
GTMC is committed to providing mutual support for members of our community who are facing challenging times.