Blessing hands that touch lives
Thursday, May 08, 2008
HAMILTON — The water poured over hands used in healing every day was not meant to cleanse; but, rather to refresh and renew.
A Blessing of Hands ceremony was held Thursday, May 8, at The Fort Hamilton Hospital as an observance of National Nurses Week and National Hospital Week. Staff members were invited to attend one of three short services offered throughout the day to recognize the importance of their healing touch. Chaplains also visited nursing departments to reach those unable to leave their station.
Extras
Chaplain Stan Dunk performs a 'Blessing of the Hands' for nurse Karen Warner in the Chapel of Fort Hamilton Hospital, Thursday, May 8, as part of an observance of National Nurses Week and National Hospital Week. 
Get latest headlines via RSS feedsThe brief service included prayer to bless the hands of those who bring a healing touch to patients, comfort the dying and console the sorrowful. Participants were called by name and blessed individually in a moving ceremony.
Fort Hamilton spokeswoman Marielou Vierling said Jewish Hospital, Fort Hamilton's sister hospital, has been offering the service for years. Although a first for the Hamilton facility, it is held around the country.
The Rev. Stan Dunk, director of pastoral care, organized the event. He was assisted in the blessing ceremonies by the Rev. Larry Davis, assistant director; the Rev. John Lawson; the Rev. Bob Jewett; and Peggy Turner.
Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2169 or pmccracken@coxohio.com.
