Lviv Medical University to Train Medical Chaplains for the First Time
For the first time, 30 UGCC medical chaplains from across Ukraine have begun studying at Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University as part of a special program titled Clinical Pastoral Education. The educational initiative was developed jointly with the UGCC Health Care Commission.
This was reported by Sister Sevastiana Karvatska, OSBM, head of the UGCC Commission on Health Care Pastoral Care, in a segment on Zhyve TV.
Commenting on the training, Sister Sevastiana stated, “Today we are witnessing a truly historic event—without exaggeration—for both our UGCC and Lviv National Medical University.”
She explained that “the training consists of a 2.5-month educational process. Upon completion, the chaplains will receive a certificate confirming they have obtained a second higher education qualification as specialists.”
“It is also very important,” she added, “that this certificate will carry international recognition. This means our medical chaplains can be officially employed in healthcare institutions with documentation confirming their qualification, and they can also use this diploma in other ministries to which they may be assigned by our Church.”
According to Sister Sevastiana, “during their studies, priests and medical chaplains will train in several departments, including psychiatry, law, social medicine, and infection control. Theological, psychological, and pastoral support is also of great importance to us.”
Orest Chemerys, rector of Lviv National Medical University, remarked, “Clinical pastoral care is essential because it addresses the spiritual and psychological needs of both patients and doctors.”
