“We are drawn, through calling and training, to know what to do when there seems little left to do,” says Greene. “Addressing things like dread, fear and grief is hard. We don’t try to cheer people up with hackneyed platitudes. Rather, we stand firm in the painful moments with them, not letting it overwhelm us, and providing a palpable reminder that they are not totally alone in their distress. It may seem like nothing, but countless people have told us otherwise. In an ocean of despair, even a drop of comfort is welcome.””
Describing the work of a chaplain is challenging, but this article gives great insight. Read more here.