About Chaplaincy Services

The Vision for Chaplaincy Services

To be a transforming presence, fostering the healing spirit throughout the hospital community

The Chaplaincy Services Department

The Reading Hospital Chaplaincy began in 1978 as a cooperative effort between the Medical Center and the Greater Reading Council of Churches. The program began with a single chaplain; however, as demands increased the need for a larger program became apparent. In 1990, The Hospital established the Department of Chaplaincy Services with the charge to build an integrated chaplaincy program that would assure the availability of high-quality spiritual care through the joint efforts of visiting clergy, volunteer chaplains, CPE interns, and other professional and chaplaincy staff.

The Department’s pastoral care philosophy rests on the principle that the care of the whole person – body, mind, and spirit -- is integral to health and healing. In fulfillment of its vision, the Departments works to:

• Promote awareness and sensitivity to the spiritual aspects of health and healing
• Coordinate spiritual care efforts on the part of Hospital staff and community organizations
• Improve the quality of spiritual services available to those hospitalized at The Reading Hospital and Medical Center

Our Staff

Dr. Gregory A. Stoddard, Director
Fr. John Little, Priest Chaplain
Rev. Mark Christy, Protestant Chaplain
Barbara Zitrick, Trauma Chaplain

Ms. Ruth Ann Wiswesser, Administrative Assistant