The Rev. John Mattern becomes first dedicated chaplain for UM Health-Sparrow’s Community Hospital
LANSING, Mich. – For the first time, UM Health-Sparrow has appointed a full-time chaplain for our Community Hospitals to assist in servicing the spiritual needs of patients, families and team members.
The Rev. John Mattern will divide his time between UM Health-Sparrow Carson, Clinton, Eaton and Ionia as their first dedicated chaplain. Until now, the Community Hospitals relied on contacting local pastors when requested by patients or staff.
Mattern, who began his new job on Monday, Aug. 10, understands the specific skills involved in ministering at a health care facility, having served as Staff Chaplain at Henry Ford Health-Genesys Hospital in Genesee County. He was also lead pastor at St. Johns Church of God in St. Johns, the community in which he lives.
“Spiritual care is an important part of healing, and we are fortunate to have someone dedicated to supporting the emotional and spiritual needs of our patients, families and team members,” said Linda Reetz, UM Health-Sparrow Market President, Community Hospitals.
All three of UM Health-Sparrow’s full-time chaplains are board-certified and are interfaith, providing support to everyone, regardless of religious background. UM Health-Sparrow also has seven on-call chaplains. The chaplains also serve as a bridge with the religious community and work with pastors of different religions upon the request of patients or staff.
“We’re thrilled to provide that increased spiritual support,” said the Rev. Nathaniel Johnson, Manager of Spiritual Services, UM Health-Sparrow. “If they are in the hospital, we are there to try to make sense during a chaotic time.”
Like the other chaplains, Mattern is also trained to counsel patients on advance care planning.
While providing support to patients is important, the chaplains split about half their time counseling UM Health-Sparrow team members as they navigate the pressures of working in health care.
“When they need a listening ear that chaplain will be there for them,” Johnson said.
Mattern can be reached through his pager at 517-360-9781.
For more information on UM Health-Sparrow spiritual services, go to UofMHealthSparrow.org/um-health-sparrow-community-health/spiritual-services-pastoral-care.
