How do I recognize spiritual needs? Part 3.

摘要

In the last two issues of JCN, I addressed the importance of identifying spiritual needs to provide spiritual care. Differences expressed by men and women were outlined, and Fish and Shelly's (1978) definition of spiritual need was referenced as a lack of any factor necessary to establish or maintain a dynamic personal relationship with God. These authors describe three main necessary factors: meaning and purpose, love and relatedness, and forgiveness (p. 40).These criteria are invaluable in helping us identify spiritual needs. Meaning and purpose (part 1) were addressed in the October/December 2008 issue of JCN, followed by love and relatedness (part 2) in the January/ March 2009 issue. This column addresses forgiveness.