Rev. Elizabeth Gibbs Zehnder serves as Presbyterian staff chaplain at LAC+USC Medical Center. Chaplaincy at LAC+USC is a witness to God’s love for all people made possible by your support through the Presbyteries of the Pacific, San Gabriel (thanks to San Marino Community Church), San Fernando and Los Ranchos and the Synod of Southern California. Your prayers and financial donations are always welcome. To find out how you can be involved, please contact Chaplain Elizabeth Gibbs Zehnder at Elizabeth.GibbsZehnder@gmail.com
Elizabeth Gibbs Zehnder
Presbyterian Chaplain at LAC+USC Medical Center
I hope that you are well and staying safe. Ministry at LAC+USC Medical Center in the season of COVID-19 continues to be challenging. Very few people that I meet like being at the hospital, now, almost everyone is worried about being here. For patients, the “No visitor” policy adds to the increased spiritual suffering provoked by the pandemic. Much of the spiritual accompaniment that I provide these days is asking patients about their loved ones and their faith – helping them connect when they feel so isolated and alone. They pour out heartwarming stories of caring sons, devoted aunts and faithful friends. I learn about the powerful ways that God has provided for them and healed them in the past and then together we pray for God’s continued provision and healing.
The hospital staff is also quite frayed. Often a nurse or doctor will pull me aside just to give voice to their overwhelming fatigue or fear for the well being of their loved ones. I have witnessed so much courage and dedication. It is truly a privilege to serve God in this place.
May God continue to walk with you as you make your way through these uncertain days,
Elizabeth
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LAC + USC Medical Center Chaplains
Elizabeth stands front, far right