Care of a Community

Ministerial alliance asked to help with cancer program — Our Journey of Hope

The Rev. Michael Langham knows it takes two things for a successful program.

One is resources or financial support and the other is people, said Langham, director of pastoral care for Cancer Treatment Centers of America, Southwestern Regional Medical Center.

Langham spoke during the Broken Arrow Ministerial Alliances monthly meeting Jan. 12.

Langham hopes to enter into a partnership with the alliance and its members to help with one of the treatment centers' programs -- Our Journey of Hope.

"As a pastor and chaplain, I've long had a desire to be able to share with pastors, spiritual leaders and their congregations what we've learned over the years about the distinct needs of cancer patients, their family members and caregivers," Langham said in a letter addressing the pastors of the alliance.

"This isn't just about telling people of the holistic treatment we provide for cancer patients here at Cancer Treatment Centers of America; it's about supporting you in your role of meeting the spiritual needs of your flock."

The goal is to provide lay ministry training for Broken Arrow residents.

Langham hopes the alliance and the churches the pastors represent will provide the people and leadership to help with the program.

"We're wanting to provide spiritual care to your congregates and communities," he said. He sees the program as more of a ministry.

Lyn Thompson, spiritual outreach coordinator, said Our Journey of Hope can make a difference in the health of the community. When people know what to say to cancer patients, Thompson said, it can make all the difference.

Research shows less mortality after a number of procedures including heart attack and bypass surgery when holistic care is implemented, she said.

"Together we can have a positive impact," Langham told the alliance members.

Cancer Treatment Centers of America is a privately—owned for-profit hospital.

CTCA is constructing a new hospital at 81st Street and Highway 169 in Tulsa. It is projected to open May 1.

The alliance elected new officers during the Jan. 12 meeting.

Shane Hickey, pastor for Fellowship Christian Church, was elected president, and Monsignor Pat Gaalaas, Church of St. Benedict, was elected vice president. Brent White, pastor for Forest Ridge Baptist, retained his position as secretary.

Hickey is looking forward as president to building the partnership with CTCA and wants the alliance to grow closer.

"If we all band together as ministers, it would be very powerful," he said.

White is happy to serve the alliance in his position. "It's a blessing to provide the legwork," he said.

The next alliance meeting will be at noon Feb 9.

For more information about Our Journey of Hope, call (800)342-3854.

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