This week at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, the halls were abuzz with the spirit of collaboration and care as Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care Week was celebrated in full force. Among those leading the charge in promoting the vital role of spiritual care was Trish Nguyen, a dedicated Buddhist chaplain, who joined hands with her Christian colleagues to highlight the transformative power of chaplaincy in healthcare.
While chaplaincy has long been associated with Christian pastoral care, Trish used this special week as a platform to shine a light on Buddhist chaplaincy and its unique role in providing compassionate support to patients and their families. Standing alongside chaplains from diverse faith traditions, Trish embodied the essence of multi-faith collaboration, demonstrating that regardless of spiritual background, chaplaincy is united by a singular goal: to bring comfort, peace, and understanding to those in need.
The power of presence: What Buddhist chaplaincy offers
Speaking to hospital staff, patients, and fellow chaplains, Trish explained that Buddhist chaplaincy focuses on the principles of mindfulness, compassion, and non-judgmental presence. ‘When we enter a patient’s room, we do so with a sense of stillness and openness,’ she said. ‘Our role is not to offer solutions but to provide space for healing through listening, empathy, and connection.’
Trish described how Buddhist chaplains draw on the teachings of impermanence and acceptance to help patients face life’s most profound challenges, including illness, pain, and the uncertainty of death. ‘In many ways, we help patients come to terms with the present moment, without fear or attachment,’ she shared. ‘This practice of mindfulness brings a sense of peace, even in the midst of suffering.’
Trish also touched on the importance of offering spiritual support that is adaptable to each patient’s needs. ‘We work across religious and cultural boundaries, always respecting the personal beliefs of those we serve,’ she explained. ‘Whether a patient is devoutly religious or identifies as secular, our presence is a reminder that they are not alone.’
Building bridges through multi-faith collaboration
In support of multi-faith relations, Trish highlighted the powerful bond she shares with her multi-faith colleagues. Together, they represent a broad spectrum of spiritual care, with each chaplain bringing their unique approach to the bedside. ‘What unites us is the deep commitment to serving the emotional and spiritual needs of patients,’ Trish said, standing alongside her fellow chaplains. ‘Our differences enrich us, allowing us to learn from each other and provide care that is truly inclusive.’
Her words were met with a resounding sense of appreciation, as many realised the profound importance of multi-faith cooperation in modern healthcare. Trish’s ability to promote Buddhist chaplaincy while fostering unity with her colleagues was a testament to the growing recognition of chaplaincy as a vital component of holistic care.
Spreading the message of Buddhist chaplaincy
Through her advocacy during Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care Week, Trish emphasised the need for greater awareness and understanding of Buddhist chaplaincy. ‘There is a misconception that chaplaincy is only for those who follow a particular faith,’ she said. ‘In reality, Buddhist chaplaincy speaks to universal human experiences: suffering, loss, love, and healing. It’s about being present in the moments that matter most.’
By sharing her experiences, Trish hopes to inspire more healthcare institutions to embrace Buddhist chaplaincy and foster multi-faith programs. ‘At Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, we are part of a broader movement—one that recognises the value of diverse spiritual care practices in helping patients navigate the most difficult moments of their lives,’ she concluded.
A call to action
As the week draws to a close, the message from Trish Nguyen and her colleagues is clear: Chaplaincy—whether Buddhist, Christian, or of any other faith—provides critical emotional and spiritual support for patients in need. It is a calling that transcends religious boundaries, speaking to the shared humanity within us all.
For Trish, promoting Buddhist chaplaincy is not just about raising awareness—it’s about making sure that every patient, regardless of their spiritual beliefs, has access to the care and compassion they deserve.
In the words of Trish herself: ‘When we bring mindfulness and compassion to our work, we help patients find peace amidst the storm.’