Chaplains Exemplify Strength in the Face of Tragedy
While America recently commemorated September 11—a solemn anniversary in our nation’s history—our Utah community was also shaken by events that brought profound loss of life. Such moments ripple through our hospitals and neighborhoods, reminding us how deeply interconnected we are. In those times of heartbreak, the presence of chaplains offering solace, prayer, and compassionate listening becomes an invaluable source of strength.
A special word of gratitude goes to Brad Baird, ECS Lead Chaplain Manager at Timpanogos Regional Hospital, who provided exceptional spiritual care during some recent difficult days. Brad spent long hours supporting families and loved ones navigating unimaginable grief, while also caring for hospital staff who were emotionally impacted. Moving from unit to unit, he checked in with staff members, invited conversation, and created safe spaces for them to process their feelings.
Even as the hospital continued its daily operations, Brad remained attentive to the ongoing needs of patients and their families. On one particularly challenging day, he extended comfort and presence to the husband of a dying patient, remaining with him as the weight of the day became overwhelming. His steady presence, compassion, and willingness to stay late into the evening ensured that no one faced those moments alone. He also participated in hospital debriefings, serving as a grounding and healing presence for everyone involved.
The work of ECS chaplains like Brad exemplifies the heart of spiritual care—meeting people in their pain, walking beside them through loss, and embodying compassion in action. Their dedication and quiet courage in times of crisis continue to bless our healthcare communities in immeasurable ways.
—ECS Leadership Team
Blessing of the Hands
““The work you do is sacred through every hour of every day. May your hands be guided as you give life and healing to the sick and broken.” May your hand be strong as you continue to be a bringer of peace.”
To further support staff, the administrative team invited the spiritual care team to conduct Blessing of the Hands rounds throughout the hospital. This cherished healthcare tradition—believed to trace its origins to the Crimean War and Florence Nightingale’s legacy—honors the sacred work of caregivers by blessing the hands that bring healing and comfort.
In addition to blessing more than 200 staff, the spiritual care team assembled a self-care cart stocked with hand-focused items such as lotion, textured meditation decals, and fidget spinners. Each staff member also received a lapel pin depicting two hands cradling a heart, inscribed with the message: “Our caring makes a difference.”
