Exploring the Experience of Complementary Alternative Methods of Healing in the Mystery of Pastoral Ministry

Keeping up with a fast changing healthcare scene, in 2002 I embarked on an exciting journey to explore the effects of Complementary Alternative Medicine within  Pastoral Ministry. Coming from India, with its rich background in traditional healing modalities, I enjoyed combining my studies in the complementary healing sciences with my pastoral education and experience ministry. In fact, what I found was a natural marriage. As healing is a reality that must affect the whole person, I found an intrinsic and inseparable connection between these physical healing modalities and pastoral practices. Increasing the healing space of the person through some simple, easy-to-do healing modalities remains entirely congruent with ministry. The result is a caring, effective, and measurable way to minister to others. Thankfully, I was blessed in my efforts with great support from CPE supervisors, pastoral care directors, and friends who practice both complementary healing arts and pastoral ministry. Through my studies, I have come to the conclusion that the knowledge and integration of a few non-invasive, easy to use modalities can often transform a simple pastoral visit into powerful event in a person's life.

In the spring of 2003, I completed the task of compiling the results of my investigation into a study program of 32 hours, which can be broken down into four modules of eight hours each. This four day course includes the history, meaning, philosophy, and practical applications of more than twenty-five easy to administer complementary alternative methods of healing. It is presented from a chaplain's perspective, careful not to step on the toes of other healthcare professionals. As this program was designed to incorporate some essential concepts of Clinical Pastoral Education, as well as study the rich traditions and practices of the complementary healing arts, it is named "CAMPaM" - Complementary Alternative Methods of healing in the mystery of Pastoral Ministry.

Shortly after the completion of the course, it was presented to the staff chaplains and CPE students of Christus Santa Rosa Healthcare in San Antonio, TX. The pastoral care staff who took the course found that, as they integrated a more holistic approach to ministry, incorporating a few simple alternative techniques, they felt their pastoral effectiveness improved, as did patient satisfaction. Administrative recognition of this positive impact has helped to bring the CAMPaM services offered by the Pastoral Care department to the other hospitals of the same system.