ah spriritual book

Positive Spiritual Emphasis

TABLE OF CONTEXT

Welcome ................................................................................................Page 1Spiritual emphasis .................................................................................Pages 2-3Principles & values ................................................................................Pages 4-5Lifestyle practices Dress .................................................................................................Page 6 Diet ..................................................................................................Pages 6-7Prayer .....................................................................................................Page 8Saturday Sabbath ....................................................................................Page 9What happens when you die? .................................................................Page 10New age and mind control .....................................................................Page 11Appendix A Highlights of Spirituality and Heath Research ...................................Page 12Appendix BOur Mission, Vision and Values .............................................................Page 13Appendix C Staff Devotions ..................................................................................Page 14 Why group devotions? .......................................................................Page 14 Suggestions for Successful Devotions .................................................Page 14 Ideas for Methods and Resources .......................................................Page 14 Appendix D What do Seventh-day Adventists Believe and Teach about Healthy Living? .............................................................Page 15-18

WELCOME!

On behalf of the administrative team, I want to welcome you to Adventist Health. Leaders who have gone before you have suggested that it might be helpful to share some of the unique cultural and religious practices you are going to encounter sometime during your management role here.

I know you’re excited about the possibilities in your new job. No doubt part of your placement interview asked if you could be supportive of the mission of Adventist Health. You must have felt you could or you wouldn’t be in this position. You will do a good job. And, because you really want to do a good job, maybe hearing some of the questions others have asked might be useful.

Now of course I don’t know your background. Maybe working in a Seventh-day Adventist institution isn’t new. Or maybe you are a Seventh-day Adventist who has been acquainted with the church for a long time. If so, you know that practices among individual members of the Seventh-day Adventist church vary. You may be wondering what position Adventist Health as a system takes on certain issues. The questions here represent a collage of the spiritual emphasis issues new leaders confront at times. I’ll share some general responses. Just in case you have specific questions I didn’t think of, feel free to talk with your department head or administrator. I’m sure he or she will welcome the opportunity to explore ideas with you.

Now, let’s get started with some conversation you might find helpful...

Adventist Health Positive Spiritual Emphasis

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SPIRITUAL EMPHASIS

Question: I hear the term “spiritual emphasis” and “whole person care.” It seems there is a lot of emphasis on spiritual focus here. Is that true?

Administrator: Right. There is an emphasis on spirituality here at Adventist Health. Maybe you noticed in the mission statement that the mission of those who serve here is to “Share God’s love by providing physical, mental and spiritual healing.” It’s our goal to provide balanced care to our patients; care that focuses on physical, mental and spiritual well-being. Often it is easy to become so focused on the physical and/or mental needs that we forget the importance of the spiritual. I think of it as similar to the balance between financial and service needs. We cannot be successful in one without the other.

Question: Does this mean I’ll be expected to talk about religious things all the time?

Administrator: Much of what we’re talking about when we speak of a positive spiritual emphasis

is an attitude. As an Adventist Health leader, you’ll find opportunity to encourage your staff to look at “wholeness” when planning patient care or developing personal and departmental goals. Sometimes you will find you have staff who have been extremely hurt by some unfortunate experience. They may feel bitter and cynical. You may even have had some hurtful experiences yourself. We’re all human. The important point is that you feel free to confront those experiences; to heal from them and to assist your staff in developing positive attitudes toward balanced wholeness. Incidentally, we often think of caring for the whole person as relating only to those departments with direct patient contact. Yet, everyone we serve is our customer. This includes both external (patients, vendors and others) and internal (employees and departments) customers. This makes our mission commitment to serve our patients, guests and each other with compassion, dignity and respect all-inclusive. Dignity and respect involve allowing freedom of choice. This is true of employees as well as others. However, if an individual finds him/herself diametrically opposed to the purposes and practices established here, he/she may find it difficult to meet specific job criteria. You as a leader will be able to help him/her explore feelings and choices.


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SPIRITUAL EMPHASIS cont...

Question: I think I have a pretty positive attitude, but I’m not sure of the things I might do in some of those situations. What kind of support can I look forward to?

Administrator: Well, like we said, much of a positive spiritual emphasis is attitude—so you already have a head start! Here are some things you might consider:Talk with others on the Management Team. Ask them what they have done, what their staff find most helpful.Talk to your staff. (Remember, it is the staff who live our mission culture each day; they have a vested interest.) Invite them to brainstorm with you what is most meaningful in your setting. Have them help you review care plans, lesson plans and job criteria to reflect spiritual considerations. (See Appendix B.) If your department doesn’t have its own mission statement, creating one can be a real team builder.Take a look around your environment. Are there pictures that provide a calming effect? Does the environment suggest peace, harmony, beauty? Is there inspirational reading material available? Are there resources offered should either an internal or external customer desire

to explore spiritual matters? Our Corporate Mission Department is always available for consultation regarding specific materials.Have you thought about planning devotions at the beginning of staff meetings? Regular devotions are encouraged at Adventist Health. Most departments schedule some form of staff devotions. Including staff on a volunteer basis can also build in the team process. Encourage taking advantage of spiritual emphasis resources offered by the organization, such as Friday morning worships (25-30 minute devotions beginning at 8:00 a.m. in the Ed Center at Douglas and the Mega Conference Room at Creekside), Morning reflections (small groups gather daily in various locations for 10 minute reflections to start the day), Thought for the Day (inspirational thoughts messages sent daily via email.)If you’d like to brainstorm with someone or sound out some ideas, the Mission Department staff is happy to serve as a resource. Dial extension 4760 or drop by the office located on the second floor of the Douglas building.

1 For further information on the relationship of spiritual well-being and health, see Appendix A.

2 For further ideas about devotions, see Appendix C.


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PRINCIPLES & VALUES

Question: What kind of expectations will be placed on me as a new manager regarding exemplary behavior?

Administrator: At Adventist Health, we are committed to creating an environment that promotes trust, confidence and safety among our patients, families, employees, volunteers and physicians. This statement is closely related to the Code of Ethics published by the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE). I know ACHE is an organization oriented toward executive responsibility to broad community. However, their standards of conduct certainly give perspective worth consideration at every healthcare practice level. Here are some samples of wording and phrases they use:

“Healthcare executives have an obligation to act in ways that will merit the trust, confidence and respect of healthcare professionals and the general public. To do so, healthcare executives must lead lives that embody an exemplary system of values and ethics.”

“Healthcare executives are responsible to…

• “Conduct all personal and professional activities with honesty, integrity, respect, fairness and good faith in a manner that will reflect well upon the profession…

• Comply with all laws in the jurisdictions in which the healthcare executive is located, or conducts professional or personal activities…

• Avoid the exploitation of professional relationships for personal gain…

• Respect professional confidences.”

THIS CODE FURTHER SPEAKS OF RESPONSIBILITIES TO:

• “Lead the organization in the use and improvement of standards of management and sound business practices;

• Respect the customs and practices of patients and others served, consistent with the organization’s philosophy; and…

• Be truthful in all forms of professional and organizational communication and avoid information that is false, misleading, and deceptive or information that would create an unreasonable expectation…”

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Question: Commitment to integrity-principled business, ethics and values is not that different from other conduct one might expect in professional practice. So why is this an issue at question?

Administrator: I’m not sure, except that because of the strong pledge to demonstrate Christ-like ministry there is heightened awareness. I once heard an administrator say we want a “community devoid of profanity.” I think he was speaking at that time of crude language, but put in broader terms, we want to be devoid of improprieties. You will want to review our AH Administrative Policy “Corporate Compliance Program.” Also see the values statement in Appendix B. Stated positively: respect and reverence for life; doing right because it is right, not for secondary gain; awarding value and dignity in relationships with others—all lead to integrity, principles, and ethical moral and legal behaviors which are expected here.

Question: Well, that’s not so ominous. Those are my values too. What about other areas, such as dress, vegetarian food, social drinking and some of the other things I’ve heard might be different here?

Administrator: Those are some specifics we might talk about. Some behaviors you would probably find in any conservative setting; others may be more cultural. Knowing about them will hopefully increase your comfort level. As a faith-based organization we are committed to serving in a manner consistent with the philosophy and practices of our sponsor, the Seventh-day Adventist church. We’ll look at some of those specifics in the next chapter. You may also refer to Appendix D for a more detailed description of what Adventist believe and teach about healthy living.


PRINCIPLES & VALUES cont...

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Life Style Practices – Dress

Administrator: Regarding dress, food and other things, some of the practices of Adventist Health are related to the philosophy and practices of the Seventh-day Adventist church. If you’ve been around Seventh-day Adventists either in church, hospital or community for some time you’re probably already familiar with some of the practices you might find. If you have more questions, your administrator or the Mission Department will be glad to visit with you.

Now, let’s see if we can speak to some of those specifics about which you were wondering. Which one would you like to start with?

Question: Well, how about appearance—dress. I want to fit in but I don’t want to give up my individuality either. Any thoughts?

Administrator: Yes, there are some thoughts and references that will be useful to you. First, I would refer you to our Administrative Policy, “Appearance.” You’ve probably noticed the environment in the organization. People often remark they feel calm and peace here. Part of that is because an effort is made to assure a tasteful décor that speaks of quality. Maybe that can be a sort of guideline to dress as well: quality, peaceful, tasteful. Don’t worry, that doesn’t mean colorless and dreary. But, as you may have noticed, this institution is fairly conservative. Basically, following principles of good professional business attire will be just right. And yes, you are on the spot with this because as you ask staff to honor our corporate policies they will look at you as their example. It’s one of the facets of being a leader.

Life Style Practices – Diet

Question: Diet, specifically vegetarianism, seems to be stressed here. Is being a vegetarian a requirement of the church? What does it have to do with “sharing God’s love” of which the mission speaks? Would I have to eat a vegetarian diet? And what about social drinking? Will I have to sign a pledge of abstinence or something?

Administrator: These are good and often asked questions. Let me try to answer. First, you need to know that the Seventh-day Adventist interest in health is not an effort to appease God or earn favor with Him. As a general rule though, Adventists see a healthful lifestyle as part of the abundant life Jesus wishes for them. It is viewed that when we are healthy we enjoy life more, we are more open to a relationship with Him, and we are more fit to share His love with others. (See the Scripture reference in 1 Corinthians 6:19.)

Long before “stop smoking,” temperance (pertaining to alcohol and recreational drugs), and vegetarianism were as popular as they are today, Adventist hospitals were providing community education to assist people in healthful lifestyles. You will notice that Adventist Health provides a wellness program for employees (LivingWell) as well as for the community. Balanced living is the goal. The dietary practices of Seventh-day Adventists are one area of healthful living people often have questions about. Many Adventists have adopted a vegetarian diet as most conducive to excellent health, but this is not a church requirement. Nor is anyone going to ask you to become vegetarian. What you will be asked to do is be supportive and sensitive to those persons on your staff who have chosen vegetarianism as a lifestyle. You may want to learn more about vegetarian choices so you will not only be prepared to answer questions should you be asked, but also have a base from which to support the organization’s endeavors to educate patients and others on the benefits of a vegetarian diet.


LIFESTYLE PRACTICES

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Question: Can I bring meat in my own sandwiches or is that discouraged?

Administrator: Bring what you like in your sandwiches. No one is going to be checking on you regarding what you eat! And, as one person who is not of the Adventist faith said, “You won’t have to be embarrassed to eat a hamburger in front of an Adventist.”

Coffee and cola beverages are also often asked about. As with the meat issue, many Adventists choose to leave caffeine out of their diet. Again, this is a matter of healthful lifestyle. No one will be checking to see if your coffee is “decaf” or “real.”

Question: Okay. I’m pretty comfortable about those issues. What about alcoholic beverages? I should think employees would pretty much expect to be alcohol free when at work. But what about social activities away from work?

Administrator: You’re right. Our Administrative Policy, “Employee Drug Free Policy,” is a comprehensive policy addressing questions on drugs and alcohol. It says that at no time should an employee on duty be under the influence (defined as any alcohol in the blood).The social question is a bit more complicated. Individuals who choose to drink socially certainly have the right to do so. However, the organization requests that alcohol not be served at social events that are work related (for example, a department dinner out).

Specific Beliefs – How They Affect Expectations for Managers


LIFESTYLE PRACTICES

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PRAYER – Trust in Divine Power

Observation: During my interviews I was told some meetings here start with prayer, and that staff members often pray with their patients and each other. I’ve usually thought of prayer as private and appropriate for church more than the work place.

Administrator: It feels so familiar around here that I haven’t thought of it in that way. Let me share some of the thoughts behind these practices. You’ll remember the mission of the Adventist Health is to share God’s love. To do that, we believe we must be consciously aware of Him. We find prayer to be one means of keeping us reminded of our dependence on Him. Besides, because we believe in the power of prayer, we honestly think it makes a difference in problem solving and in patient care. We do receive positive comments from staff and patients regarding prayers others have shared with them. You’d be interested to know that many of the patients who come to us for care know this is a Christian organization and come expecting staff to pray with and for them. To others this is a new experience and often one with great meaning.

Question: Not everyone is comfortable with prayer. Do you have any suggestions about that?

Administrator: Many people choose to apply for work here because they, like many of the patients, know this is a Christian organization and they will be encouraged to care for the whole person. That may include prayer at appropriate times. However, not everyone here is comfortable praying in public. As part of the management team, you’ll want to be sensitive to those persons. We do ask that they be respectful of the practice of prayer. We also assure them we will honor their free will by doing our best to keep them from being put on the spot to lead the prayer at the beginning of meetings or other gatherings. I don’t know how you feel

about praying in public.You may be very comfortable, or there may be some forums in which you, too, have discomfort. If this is true, you may wish to find someone to fill in for you in those circumstances.

Observation: Prayer seems very sacred to me. Sometimes it seems just having a quick prayer at the beginning of a meeting then going on with business as usual borders on sacrilegious.

Administrator: It is very possible for us to get into habits and forget about meanings. Sometimes it may feel like we might be doing something ritualistically. That’s too bad, but it is part of being human. Nevertheless, the practice does serve to keep us reminded that we are dependent on God for wisdom and leading. He really wants a relationship with us. I think He especially enjoys having us think about our conversations with Him. That’s when prayer is most meaningful. For as long as Adventist Health has existed, both private and group prayer have been an important part of this organization. It’s interesting to look back over the years and hear stories about answers to prayer that made a real difference. Ask some of the people who have been around here for a while to share their prayer experiences with you.

Escalating research has shown significant correlation between health, trust and spiritual well-being. (See Appendix A.) Prayer is often a part of expressing trust.

Observation: Yes, I’ve been reading some of that in Appendix A. I guess prayer is one means of both strengthening and building that kind of trust. It makes sense that it’s as important for an organization as for us as individuals. I’ve heard it said, “A family that prays together stays together.” I have a feeling that’s true in team building, too.

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SATURDAY SABBATH

Administrator: Another uniqueness about working here at Adventist Health is the reference of Saturday as Sabbath.

Observation: Yes, I’ve noticed that “Saturday,” “Seventh-day” and “Sabbath” seem to be used synonymously. I figured “Seventh-day” must have significance to even be used in the name Seventh-day Adventist. I don’t know how much that will influence my work here, though, because hospitals are seven-days-a-week, 365-days-a-year operations.

Administrator: We’re always open for care, and we’re committed to providing excellent quality care seven days a week, which includes Saturday and Sunday. At the same time, we very much believe in the importance of a special day of rest and worship, even in never ending work settings. Adventist Health facilities are often recognized in the community as the “institution that cares.” Much of the underlying reason for this is basic belief in the specialness of a day of rest.To Seventh-day Adventists, the seventh-day Sabbath is a memorial to creation and God, theCreator. We believe that by observing this memorial, we are more prepared to meet our mission. Making Sabbath a special day is one means by which many staff at Adventist Health remember Him.

Question: What about staff and patients who observe Sunday as Sabbath?

Administrator: We certainly want to respect varying religious convictions. We offer chapel services for patients, visitors and others on both Saturday and Sunday. Employees are welcome to attend as their schedules allow. As much as possible we like to accommodate persons’ wishes for days off for worship. However, both Saturday and Sunday worshipers do find that in order to allow everyone on the team prime time

off, some will need to be here to attend to the essentials of quality care.

Question: What is expected of me as a manager, related to “Sabbath?”

Administrator: Well, the thing that comes to mind first is that you would plan with your staff ways for making Sabbath special and yet maintain quality patient care. In an overall way, we attempt to maintain as much of a worshipful atmosphere as possible. This means activities such as construction and extra cleaning cease. And music in the hallways and waiting areas is of a worshipful nature. It is our goal that the change from business as usual will provide a peaceful quietness.

Question: What about my own management work?

Administrator: Unless the management work is of urgent nature affecting the quality of immediate patient care, managers are asked not to do regular management work during Sabbath hours. On a similar topic, our Administrative Policy, “Educational Assistance Program,” points out that we do not request people to attend educational meetings during what we understand to be Sabbath hours.

Question: When you say “Sabbath hours,” what does that mean?

Administrator: Sabbath at Adventist Health begins Friday evening at sundown and extends to sundown Saturday evening. This is based on the Seventh-day Adventist interpretation of the Scriptural reference in Genesis 1:5 describing evening and morning as one day. Because sundown time throughout the year changes, you’ll find our Administrative Policy,“Friday Closing Time,” addresses this.


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WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU DIE?

Question: I’ve heard that Adventists may not agree with the common belief that you go to heaven as soon as you die. Is it difficult, especially in a hospital, to take care of people who believe differently?

Administrator: Adventists believe the gift of life that returns to God at death is not a conscious “soul.” In our understanding, human beings are mortal. Only God is immortal. And so, we don’t live forever. However, we also believe scripture says that at the second coming of Christ, He will give the gift of immortality to all His followers. When Jesus rose from the dead, He broke the power of death for all of us. Some of us may “sleep” for a while before Christ returns, but death has been defeated, and we will awaken again.

If you want to know more about scriptural references that support this concept we’ll be glad to share with you. However, I have a feeling the latter part of your question—how this relates to our care here—is the more immediate question.

Observation: You’re right, it is. I’m wondering how you relate to people who find comfort in the belief that their loved one “is in heaven now.”

Administrator: We’ve found that when people are in crisis we need to support them where they are. We do not affirm the belief about being in heaven or God

taking their loved one. We think that can set people up for some very angry feelings toward God. However, we find that crisis time is not a time to challenge beliefs either. If someone asks and we can be of comfort, we try to share very simply. You won’t be expected to explain the Adventist understanding of these issues. We do ask that you be courteous regarding the various beliefs. If you have questions or need someone to assist you in talking with patients and families, the Mission Department is readily available and willing to help. You may also refer to the Cultural and Spiritual Dictionary in Appendix E to learn about commonly-held spiritual beliefs of a number of ethnic and religious groups that may impact a patient’s response to care and treatment.

All of our Adventist Health facilities enjoy a good working relationship with clergy from other faiths in the community as well. Our chaplains often assist in making calls to them and do all they can to support their ministry. This works very well for most of the situations that might arise. Nonetheless, as a Christian institution there are some things we believe to be antagonistic to our perceptions of Christian practices. You’ll want to know about some of those.


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NEW AGE AND MIND CONTROL

Administrator: You’ll no doubt come into contact with beliefs in human potential that are questioned in this setting. Basic beliefs about God, the Creator, and human beings whom He created are important here. We believe God is a divine being who created us in His image. That means we do have great potential—no doubt more than we use much of the time. Yet, we are creatures dependent on our Creator. This differs from some of the thinking which has become very popular in recent years.

Question: Coming back to your term “whole person care,” do you practice channeling and healing touch?

Administrator: God is supreme and human beings are able to achieve good only through relationship with Him. Therapies like those you mentioned and

others that are based on mystical belief systems (such as hypnosis and spiritual deliverance ministry) are not acceptable practices here. We cannot endorse therapies that do not enable patients to keep intact critical control of the mind and will. You will want to refer to the Adventist Health Corporate Policy #AD-07-001-5, “Alternative and Contemporary Medicine,” for more information on this topic.

Administrator: We’ve covered a lot of material here—probably even some issues you didn’t even have questions about yet! Hopefully this was helpful to you. Most of all, we want you to know that our goal is for you to succeed, and we wish to do anything we can to help. We are confident our beliefs and standards mold and support excellent, motivated and happy employees. We are all striving to be the best we can be for our patients and communities, and welcome you to our team.


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APPENDIX A - WHY IS THIS SO IMPORTANT?

Religion and spirituality are “among the most important factors that structure human experience, beliefs, values, behavior, and illness patterns.”

Negative coping strategies (e.g. seeing the crisis as God’s punishment or questioning God’s loveor power) linked to more depression and lowered quality of life and greater callousness to others.

Highlights of Spirituality and Heath ResearchRapid advancements in medical science and technology have impacted the understanding of whole person care. Limitations of technology in achieving optimal outcomes coupled with more aggressive treatments have highlighted the need for spiritual care, thus accelerating research in the field of spirituality and health. During the last two decades scientifically based evidence has emerged showing a clear predictive relationship between various aspects of spirituality or religiosity and:

• Enhanced subjective states of well-being.• Lower levels of depression and psychological distress.• Enhanced post-op recovery • Reduced mortality – particularly with cardiac patients• Delayed morbidity.• Better coping with illness and disability• Less high blood pressure/hypertension• Lower levels of depression• Reduced suicide risk• Less domestic abuse and divorce• Lower substance abuse and enhanced treatment

outcomes• Improved treatment outcomes• Less fear of death• Better coping• Less Crime• Teen behavior related to: delinquency, depression,

substance abuse, smoking, suicide• Elderly – enhanced immune systems, more positive

view of health• Illness prevention

• Greater life satisfaction• Overall wellness • Longer life• Enhanced immune function• Greater compliance with care

Financial Benefits• Healthier lifestyle reducing the need for costly

interventions• Decreased length of hospitalization• Less anxiety related to surgery which improves

outcomes• Lower consumption of pain medication• Fewer calls for nursing help and less demand on

hospital staff• Contributes to client satisfaction and decreases the

amount of litigation against the health care institution• Clients who receive spiritual care are more likely to

return to the same hospital when they subsequently require care

• Enhanced immune function reducing the frequency and duration of illness

• Reduced risk-taking behaviors• More frequent monitoring for health problems• Compliance with medical treatments resulting in more

positive health outcomes

A strong spiritual climate in the workplace is associated with:• Higher productivity• Higher performance• Greater job satisfaction• Higher Emotional Intelligence • Greater organizational commitment and loyalty

• Team work• Greater safety• Less burnout • Greater resiliency• Less disruptive behavior• Enhanced self-care


Hand book of Religion and Health 2nd Edition Harold G. Koenig, Dana E. King, Vera Benner Carson 2012

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APPENDIX B - MISSION, VISION & VALUES

Our MissionTo share God’s love by providing physical, mental and spiritual healing.

We Commit To:• Delivering whole-person care that nurtures body,

mind, and spirit;• Encouraging living well by promoting a healthy

lifestyle;• Reflecting God’s love by serving with compassion,

dignity and respect;• Improving the health of the communities we serve;• Providing services in the most medically and

financially appropriate setting;• Delivering compassionate, high quality care with

technical excellence;• Creating a safe environment of care that inspires

trust and confidence;• Serving as a faith-based health care organization consistent with the philosophy of the Seventh-day Adventist church.

Our VisionAdventist Health will be a recognized leader in mission focus, quality care and fiscal strength.

Our ValuesIn partnership with God, we will fulfill our mission

and vision by treating others in harmony with our values:

• COMPASSION: The compassionate, healing ministry of Jesus.

• RESPECT: Human dignity and individuality.• INTEGRITY: Absolute integrity in all relationships

and dealings.• QUALITY: Excellence in clinical and service quality. • STEWARDSHIP: Responsible resource

management in serving our communities.• WHOLENESS: The healthcare heritage of the

Seventh-day Adventist Church.• FAMILY: Each other as members of a caring family.


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APPENDIX C - DEVOTIONS & RESOURCES

Staff DevotionsRegular staff devotions are a part of Adventist Health’s spiritual culture, tradition and practice. Many have chosen to work here because of this and other practices which support the practical application of Christianity. Participation in devotions is entirely voluntary.

Why group devotions?Employees who participate in department devotions have listed the following observations as advantages of team worships:• Provides opportunity for caring for each other; to “bear

one another’s burdens,” and for sharing• Breaks down barriers resulting in freer communications• Builds group cohesiveness• Reminds us of our dependence on God and

interdependence with each other• A time to heal when faith is challenged• A good time for coaching• Makes a difference in care outcomes• A source of wisdom• Gives life to the hospital mission statement

Suggestions for Successful Devotions• Keep them short; usually limited to one main thought.• Use illustrations. Stories are a contemporary mode of

communicating a message.• Be careful that no one is ever put on the spot.

Participation in devotional times is always considered voluntary.

• Give opportunity for sharing.• Be cognizant of varying belief orientations. Usually

doctrinal study is best left for individual discussion times.

Ideas for Methods and ResourcesThe following suggestions have been gleaned from a variety of department practices. They are offered as suggestions that might be usefully adapted to other settings.

Where it is possible to begin a shift with the whole team or at least two or more people, a short devotional reading and prayer at the beginning of the shift canbe especially meaningful.1. Have staff bring thoughts that have been meaningful

to them.2. Use a devotional book designed with daily thoughts.

For suggestions, see the Mission and Spiritual Care department.

3. Read a Bible verse or passage. These can be found on commercially available calendar thoughts designed with verses and quotations or Promise Cards.

4. Go through the hospital mission statement and discuss point by point a department specific meaning.

5. Group singing. This is especially meaningful in areas where patients hear the singing. Words set to music sometimes stays in one’s heart longer than words alone. Thus, group singing may be effective in any setting.

Even when shifts are staggered and staff do not all begin work at the same time, there are some things that can be done to enhance devotional thought.

1. Post a “Thought for the Day” or write on a chalkboard in the department.

2. Plan for worship thoughts at department meetings.3. Include a quote or thought in written department

communications.4. Where taped reports are used, include a thought or

quote for the day.5. Provide an inspirational video to play in staff rooms

during break times.

ResourcesThe Mission and Spiritual Care Department assists in locating resources to fit individual department needs. Please note: All materials used need to be compatible with Judeo-Christian philosophy.

Adventist Health Positive Spiritual Emphasis14

APPENDIX D - WHAT DO SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS BELIEVE AND TEACH ABOUT HEALTHY LIVING?

Adventists have a long tradition of promoting healthy living and have followed Christ’s example of ministering to people’s health needs. They do this by conducting healthy living programs and classes, and by providing health healthcare through medical clinics and hospitals worldwide.Many groups have referred to Adventists as an example of the benefits of healthy living. In an article in Newsweek magazine entitled, “11 Habits to Live to 100,” the author made a list of key principles to achieve a healthy, long life1. Recommendation number 8 stated, “Live like a Seventh-day Adventist. Seventh Day Adventist have an average life expectancy of 89, about a decade longer than the average American. One of the basic tenets of the religion is that it’s important to cherish the body that’s on loan from God, which means no smoking, alcohol abuse, or overindulging in sweets. Followers typically get plenty of exercise, are vegetarian, and make family and community a focus.”Another widely distributed article using Adventists as an example of healthy living is the National Geographic magazine’s article on the “Blue Zones” - places throughout the world where people live measurably longer lives. One of the 5 zones identified was Loma Linda, California, a Seventh-day Adventist community. Dan Buettner, the author, visited Loma Linda, studied the people there and their lifestyles. In the National Geographic book, The Blue Zones, he states, “Study results have shown that, as a group, they currently lead the U.S. in longest life expectancy.”2 The point of aspiring to wellness is not simply to live longer, but to serve God more effectively says Scott LeMert, senior pastor of the Sunnyside Seventh-day Adventist Church in Portland, Oregon3. It’s also a quality of life issue. Who wants to live a long time if they are sick and miserable the last 20 or 30 years of their life?

What do Seventh-day Adventists believe and teach about healthy living? Here is a concise summary of the key principles.1. God dwells within us, we are his temple, and it is a

religious privilege to keep this temple body in good health so God can better work in and through us and that we can become all that God wants us to be. See I Corinthians 3:16, 17.

2. Free to choose. Healthy living principles, though encouraged for all, are the member’s choice, not mandated. God does not work by force but rather by invitation and personal choice. Healthy living is not intended to make you holy but rather healthy. Being healthy of course has many advantages enabling members to be able to better serve and help others as well as better develop their own spiritual and physical goals. Along with choice comes personal responsibility for your own health. The biblical teaching, “God is not mocked. Whatever a person sows that shall they also reap” is well illustrated by the choices people make daily regarding their health.

3. Eat healthy meals, based largely on whole, unrefined, plant based foods. Yes, some members do eat meat but if they do it tends to be more sparingly and less often and they eat more fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains. Most also use some milk products and eggs, but they tend to use these items moderately as well.

The key principle of eating healthy foods is best explained in this statement written by one of the early leaders of the Adventist Church, Ellen White. “Grains, fruits, nuts, and vegetables constitute the diet chosen for us by our Creator. These foods, prepared in as simple and natural a manner as possible, are the most healthful and nourishing.”4 In the New Testament, Paul states, “Whether you eat or drink, do all to the glory of God.” These simple statements have been a guiding principle for over 150 years among Adventists. More specifically, Adventists teach the following principles about healthy eating:

Adventist Health Positive Spiritual Emphasis 15

Freely eat a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, preferably fresh or frozen.• Choose primarily whole grain breads and cereals in

place of white bread, white rice, and foods made from refined grains. Examples would be steel cut oats, granola, whole wheat bread, brown rice, whole-grain pasta, quinoa, and other whole grains.

• Include nuts and seeds frequently in the diet, typically daily. Examples include walnuts, almonds, and other tree nuts, sunflower seeds, flax meal, peanuts, almond and peanut butter, etc.

• A vegetarian diet is recommended but is eac member’s personal choice. Those who choose to eat meat follow the biblical guidelines of clean meats, briefly defined as; fish with scales, poultry, beef, and lamb. Most members include a variety of “vege-meats” such as vegeburgers, nut loaf, soy chick, etc. available through the church’s ABC Adventist Book Center stores and community services buildings.

• Eat legumes often, including lentils, split peas, beans, soy, tofu, etc.

• Eat a good breakfast daily and keep the evening meal moderate in calories.

• Use dairy foods (whole milk, cheese, ice cream, and butter) moderately; lowfat dairy is preferable. Many members now prefer soy milk (fortified with calcium and B12).

• Limit, sugar, soft drinks, and sweets. Enjoy nature’s natural sweets – berries, pineapple, a fresh peach, tangerine, date, and pure fruit juices such as grape, orange juice, or sparkling cider in place of sugar sweetened drinks.

• Choose healthy fats (vegetable oils, nuts, olives, avocado, etc.) in place of solid and animal fats.

• Limit salt and foods high in sodium.

4. Be physically active daily such as brisk walking, biking, swimming, jogging, active sports, strength training and working in your yard or garden. Avoid prolonged sitting without taking frequent breaks. The following statement on physical activity has given

guidance to the church for more than 100 years, “When the weather will permit, all who can possibly do so ought to walk in the open air every day, summer and winter.”5

5. Avoid smoking, alcohol, and street drugs. It is a Christian duty to avoid those things that destroy the health such as smoking or influence the mind clouding judgment such as drug use or alcohol. High caffeine use can also be addictive and damaging to health such as found in high caffeine “energy drinks” often used as a stimulant for lack of adequate sleep or as a substitute for a good breakfast or other meals.

6. Moderation, defined as avoiding those things which are harmful and being moderate in things that are good. In other words, don’t overdo or go to extremes. Work normal hours. Don’t be a workaholic. Take time for recreation but don’t spend all your time playing. Eat good foods but in healthy amounts. Don’t sit too much. Don’t watch too much TV or play too many computer games. Be active, but don’t overdo. Moderation is a good principle for keeping life in balance.

7. Get your rest. Everyone needs adequate sleep, at least 7-8 hours daily, and periods of rest to be productive and to enjoy good physical and mental health. This also means taking at least one day off a week to rest and recoup. Adventists believe in taking a full 24 hour Sabbath day rest every week, where you lay down your normal work duties and spend the day in rest, family activities, worship, and spending time in the beautiful natural world God has given us to enjoy.

8. Sunshine, pure water, and clean air are key ingredients for good health. Adventists teach that one of the best ways to prevent disease is to wash your hands, keep your body and clothes clean, kitchen and food preparation areas clean and free of germs, and a clean sanitary living area. Also having uncontaminated drinking water, proper sanitation and disposal of waste is essential. Bathing and cleanliness is an important part of healthy living as is drinking plenty of pure, healthy water. Sunshine is beneficial to your health but take it in moderate doses to avoid


skin cancer. Helping keep our environment clean, including the air we breathe, is also an essential component for healthy living.

9. Wholistic health. Adventists believe that physical, mental, social, and spiritual, dimensions of life must all work together in a balanced way to achieve optimum health. Thus developing good mental health habits, being happy, hopeful, optimistic, taking time to relax, limiting stress, developing good coping strategies, volunteering in your community, developing good relationships, strengthening family life, being compassionate, and demonstrating love and forgiveness, are all important aspects of a healthy lifestyle.

10. Get regular medical care. Even when you think you’ve done everything right, it’s still possible to break an arm, get an infection, or develop a chronic health problem. Getting regular medical care, including exams and preventive checks, is an important aspect of healthy living. This also includes seeing your dentist regularly for checkups and teeth cleanings along with daily brushing and flossing.

Of course not all Adventist reach all of these high objectives, but that is their goal and most are committed to living a healthy life and encouraging and supporting others on this journey. Because most

Adventists choose a healthier lifestyle, the National Institutes of Health have funded research on the health habits of Adventists to see what benefits they provide. Currently Loma Linda University is conducting a second large health study of Adventists funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) called the Adventist Health Study-2, including over 90,000 members throughout North America. Earlier studies have found that Adventists as a group have less heart disease, lower rates of many cancers, and live significantly longer than the general population. In the first Adventist Health Study:

• Adventist women lived on average 4.4 years, and men 7.3 years longer than their non-Adventist neighbors.

• Researchers found 5 lifestyle behaviors among Adventists that increased longevity by up to 10 years: not smoking, eating a plant-based diet, eating nuts most days of the week, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy body weight.6

Adventist Health Study- 2 has already observed other health advantages for those who primarily follow a plant based diet7,8. Compared to non-vegetarian Adventists, vegetarian Adventists have:

• Less obesity, they weighed on average about 30 pounds less than non-vegetarians.

• Less diabetes, about a 55% lower rate.• Less hypertension, about a 42% lower rate.

Adventist Health Positive Spiritual Emphasis 17

• Loss high cholesterol, about a 55% lower rate.• Less cancer, 8% fewer cancer deaths.• Less cardiovascular disease, 19% fewer deaths (42%

fewer deaths in vegan men).• Lower total mortality, 12% fewer deaths from any cause

(28% fewer deaths in vegan men).A report on the longevity of Adventists in the Archives of Internal Medicine stated that in the U.S. only about 20% of the men reach 85 years of age or older6. In Japan, the country with the best longevity in the world, this jumps to 23.6%. But, among Adventists as a whole, 41% reach age 85 and nearly half (48.6%) of vegetarian men reach age 85. The National Geographic study of the “Blue Zones” found that there were 10 times as many Adventist living to be 100 in Loma Linda California (a community made up of largely Adventists) as in the rest of the nation.9 The better health that Adventists enjoy is not due just to healthy living. Research shows that commitment to a faith and attending religious services regularly is also associated with greater longevity and happiness.These studies highlight many of the health advantages of living the Adventist Lifestyle which has been taught within the church for over 150 years. At that time, the germ theory was still not widely known. People seldom bathed. Additionally, Aspirin was unavailable, along with the X-ray machine, antibiotics, pasteurization, and immunizations. Yet, these health teachings have stood the test of time and have produced a people with

clear health and longevity advantages. Now you know what Adventists believe and teach about health, and if you are interested in a long, healthy life you too can benefit from these simple yet profound principles of healthy living.

References:1. U.S. News and World Report, 11 Health Habits that will help you live to 100 (http://health.usnews.com/health-news/living-well-usn/slideshows/in-pictures-11-health-habits-that-will-help-you-live-to-100)2. Dan Buettner, National Geographic Society, The Blue Zones (http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/happiest-places/blue-zones-california-photos/ )3. Nancy Haught, The Oregonian, May 08, 20124. Ellen White, Counsels on Diet and Foods p.2965. Ellen White, Counsels on Health, p. 526. Gary Frazer, et al. Archives of Internal Medicine 161:1645-16527. Gary Frazer, Adventist Health Study 2, 6th International Conference of Vegetarian Nutrition, Feb. 24, 20138. JAMA Internal Medicine 2013; 173(13):1230-389. Dan Buettner, National Geographic Society, The Blue Zones

Written by Don Hall, DrPH, CHES. Updated 10-28-2013


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