Josh Friesen, who has worked for years as a social worker at Christian Health Care Center, assumed a new role on Dec. 20: that of chaplain.
CHCC has always recognized the importance of spirituality in daily life and in the overall well-being of many of our residents. From the start, it has been our mission to provide a comprehensive range of spiritual services.
Our chaplain is a critical part of that effort, and we could not be more thrilled to have a person of Josh’s character and dedication in the role.
Recently, Josh spoke about the new responsibility, how he hopes to serve the CHCC community, and some of his favorite Bible passages for sharing with others.
Q: What is the role of the chaplain at CHCC?
A: As a long-term care chaplain, my main responsibility is to ensure that the religious and spiritual needs of CHCC residents and their loved ones are met. I meet with residents upon admission and, as requested, continue to visit with them during their time here. I also facilitate a variety of faith-based programs, including a monthly memorial service, communion, Bible study and worship services.
Q: What does it mean to you to assume the role of chaplain at CHCC?
A: I have personally experienced my faith and hope grow through relationships. In assuming the role of chaplain, I pray that my relational presence can be an encouragement and support to many, regardless of denominational or faith background, wherever they find themselves in their life’s journey.
Q: Why do you feel called to serve the elderly?
A: I will say that my life has been impacted incredibly by the love and wisdom of those who have experienced so much more of life than I have yet to. Since joining the CHCC team in 2013, I have been inspired by the lives, the stories, and the faith of so many residents and their families. I hope that my presence continues to pay it forward.
Q: What is your background in this line of work?
A: When I was growing up, my parents were missionaries. Later on, they pastored a church. After I graduated from high school, I attended Pacific Life Bible College in Surrey, British Columbia, where I earned a diploma in music ministry. Since college, I have served as a staff member of several churches, primarily in the role of worship director. I believe my unique personal and family history in ministry, along with my experiences of serving as a member of the CHCC team, will lend well to this role.
Q: Will you be monitoring the prayer box at CHCC?
A: Yes, and I encourage anyone to use it! Any residents, staff, family and others are welcome to drop prayer requests into the box. I will check the box every day that I am here. The CHCC prayer box is a wonderful opportunity for anyone to have their prayer requests heard and prayed for and, if they want, to have a chaplain follow up with them about their needs. Everything put into the box is kept confidential.
Q: Will you serve staff and resident representatives in addition to those who live here at CHCC?
A: Although this role will function mainly as a service to the residents of CHCC, I am also available to support and counsel with resident representatives, families of people receiving care here and staff regarding spiritual support matters.
Q: Do you have favorite Bible verses that you often share with long-term care residents and their families?
A: Yes, I have a couple favorites.
Psalm 23 is a great one: “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul …” (NIV)
The Beatitudes, too, in Matthew 5:3-10: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy …” (NIV)
Q: What will your hours be? How can people contact you?
A: My office hours are located here: https://chcclynden.org/long-term-care/spiritual-support/.
I can be reached via phone at 360-354-4434, ext. 6362, and via email at jrfriesen@chcclynden.org.