Pastoral Care

The chaplains in the Department of Pastoral Care provide spiritual and emotional care for patients, families, staff and visitors at The University of Tennessee Medical Center.

Our chaplains understand that assisting with spiritual and emotional needs is an important part of caring for the whole person. Care is available to people of all faiths.

Through clinical pastoral care, chaplains demonstrate the spiritual dimension of the hospital’s mission and strengthen the relationship between the medical center and religious communities at large.

Our Mission

The Department of Pastoral Care supports UT Medical Center in its mission of healing, education and discovery by providing compassionate care and spiritual support to patients, families, and staff while respecting their beliefs, culture, traditions, and values.

Learn more about the medical center.

Services offered by Pastoral Care include the following:

• Pastoral visits
• Chapel services
• 24-hour onsite coverage
• Respond to all trauma’s and codes
• Bereavement and grief support
• Community education

Chaplain Services

A chaplain is available onsite 24 hours a day and can be reached through the hospital operator or by pager. The Pastoral Care staff is an integral part of the health care team at the medical center.

Absher Chapel

The chapel is located on the first floor of the hospital’s lobby across from the Gift Shop. It is open 24 hours a day for prayer and meditation.

Services are held Monday-Friday at 12 pm.

Clinical Pastoral Education

The University of Tennessee Medical Center offers theological students a variety of clinical pastoral education opportunities. If you’re interested in learning more or applying to the program, visit Clinical Pastoral Education.