OCALA, FL (352today) – The power of prayer.
Spirituality and faith play a huge role in the healing process, and it’s important to have the presence of those who can provide emotional support in times of trauma.
Two chaplains made their way from Zephyr Hills to Ocala to comfort the victims of a tragic bus crash, that claimed the lives of eight people, while sending more than 40 to the hospital with injuries on Tuesday.
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The untoward event and the gravitas of the situation called for members of the clergy, whose experience and equanimity were welcome during a time when emotions were palpable with all who were present at the time of the patients’ arrival. The chaplains have been through similar experiences in the past, particularly in the Tampa area.
“Staff was doing their very best,” said Andres Sequera, director of mission and ministry for AdventHealth hospitals. “Having bilingual chaplains isn’t the most common thing in most regions of the state. We’re happy to come out wherever we’re needed.”
The tenor of the environment, found many of the patients in good spirits despite the ordeal they went through earlier in the day, demonstrating their faith and strength in the face of adversity.
The hospital says many of the patients have been discharged. For those still hospitalized, the chaplains provided prayer for the patients.
“You can tell they’ve been through a lot and are processing what they feel,” said Sequera.
The chaplains also spoke with family members on the phone. They say many of them experienced shock when informed about the accident.
“There were tears but there were also manifestations of relief, and the patients have been very happy to be in communication with their loved ones,” said Sequera. “You can only imagine being far away is difficult. It’s good for them to hear the voice of their loved ones. It’s an amazing thing.”