Luminous
A Catholic Woman and Her Thoughts on Life, the Universe, and Everything
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
UK Hospital Reinstates Nurse Suspended for Prayer
What the article below is too polite to mention is that the hospital in question received literally thousands of calls and emails protesting this action - I'd say that the world-wide attention might have had a little something to do with their change of heart. Now that begs the question - what about all those people who are slapped down by their employers, for simply offering to pray for someone, who don't end up on the international news? Is that what it takes, these days, to be allowed to say something as simple as "would you like me to pray for you?" - The fact that the women she asked didn't even actually put in a formal complaint, but that the punitive action was initiated because a co-worker reported the "incident" makes this whole event even more suspect. It reeks of a general intolerance for religious belief in general, in the ever-widening quest to be oh-so-careful, and oh-so-correct. Personally, I've given up on being "correct" - I am a person of faith, and if they can't deal with being blessed, well, then I gotta wonder if splashing holy water on them might make the steam rise... And I'm going to pray for them anyway.... Everyone can use grace, everyone can use blessings from God - whether they believe or not. Like it says in the old saying - doesn't matter, God believes in them.
 

UK Hospital Reinstates Nurse Suspended for Prayer
Recognizes Importance of "Spiritual Belief"
 
LONDON, FEB. 9, 2009 (Zenit.org).- The Christian nurse who was suspended for offering to pray for a patient was notified that she may return to work.
 
Caroline Petrie was contacted Thursday by the North Somerset Primary Care Trust with the news that she could resume her hospital responsibilities within days.
 
The 45-year-old nurse had asked an elderly patient if she would like her to pray with her. The patient in question, May Phippen, 79, said she did not feel offended, but rather commented in passing to another nurse that she found the offer strange, and that it could be offensive for other patients.
 
As a result, Petrie had a disciplinary hearing for "failing to show a commitment to equality and diversity."
 
The hospital reported her reinstatement Thursday night, affirming that they are "keenly aware of the importance of an individual's spiritual belief."
 
It stated: "We recognize that Caroline felt that she was acting in the best interests of her patients. For some people of faith, prayer is seen as an integral part of health care and the healing process."
 
"It is acceptable," the statement continued, "to offer spiritual support as part of care when the patient asks for it."
 
The hospital expressed support for "Caroline and other staff who have a faith" to continue to "offer high quality care for patients while remaining committed to their beliefs."
Written at 3:12 PM by Luminaria2112.
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