The interfaith chaplaincy program at the Hudson Valley Hospital Center was begun through a cooperative effort between the hospital and PAPA, in 1989. Dr. Janet Foy served as the volunteer coordinator of the program for sixteen years. In 2005, the hospital administration hired previous PAPA president, Margaret Byrne as the chaplain program’s first paid director. After her repose in 2009, Ellen Buccellato (who was also involved in the development of the program) served as interim chaplain coordinator.
The program consists of more than 20 volunteer chaplains of various faiths and confessions. This ensures that a chaplain is on call at the hospital at all times, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Chaplains offer comfort to patients, praying with them and engaging in conversation and spiritual reading. At no time is there an effort at proselytizing of any kind.
To become an interfaith chaplain, candidates participate in an intensive training program. PAPA member clergy representing the various faith traditions assist the chaplain coordinator in conducting the training seminars.
The current director of chaplains at HVHC is Joan Schildwachter, who was installed in 2009. For further information on joining the pastoral care program, please contact Joan at the Chaplains Office at 734-3330.
Chaplaincy Program at HVHC
Chaplains at HVHC
Chaplains at HVHC