ABSTRACT

This chapter discusses a nurse with pastoral care interests, and a pastor with an interest in nursing. Sometimes differences in perspective will show through, but the combined perspective offers useful practical guidance on the nature of spiritual care at the end of life. Sacred moments occur in the midst of the ordinary, and that which might be considered deeply spiritual to one person might be no more than social to another. The spiritual care of people receiving palliative care can be as 'intentional' as other aspects of the nursing task. Spiritual care for Ben was implicit within his care team as a result of the team's commitment to a particular quality of nursing relationship. Spiritual care for Janet was carried out, albeit less than adequately as it transpired, through referral to a religious practitioner. Nurses have an important part to play in maintaining the consciousness of the team regarding the importance of spiritual care.