At St. Paul’s Hospital, compassionate and holistic care is not just a philosophy – it’s a practice rooted in dignity, empathy, and the belief that healthcare extends beyond physical treatment. We care for the whole person – mind, body, and spirit – through every stage of the health journey.
Founded on Catholic teachings and strengthened by inclusive, multi-faith traditions, our care teams work together to honour the diverse needs of patients and families. Whether through comfort-focused palliative care, Indigenous ceremonies in our healing garden, or support groups for staff navigating the emotional demands of healthcare, every element of care at St. Paul’s is guided by the values of health, hope and compassion for all.
What Compassionate & Holistic Care Looks Like:
Compassionate care at St. Paul’s means meeting every patient as a whole person – not just a diagnosis. Whether you’re in a hospital bed, walking through grief, or caring for a loved one, we listen deeply, honour your needs, and walk alongside you every step of the way.
As part of Emmanuel Health, we are guided by Catholic social teachings and a shared commitment to serving with love, respect, and dignity. This foundation shapes every interaction, whether it’s a quiet moment of prayer, a conversation with a family member, or a healing arts session, ensuring that care is not only clinically excellent, but also deeply human.
While St. Paul’s is rooted in Catholic values, our holistic care approach is inclusive and welcoming to all beliefs, cultures, and worldviews. Whether you find meaning through spiritual practice, family, art, nature, or quiet reflection, our team will honour what matters most to you.
Our Spiritual Care Providers are trained to support people of all faiths, or no faith, offering services like bedside visits, prayer, smudging ceremonies, communion, grief support, and moments of reflection tailored to each person’s values. Learn more by visiting our Spiritual Care page.
Art and music aren’t extras; they’re part of our holistic healing approach. Through painting, writing, music-making, and storytelling, patients and families can process emotions, find joy, and experience moments of peace, especially during long or difficult stays.
Yes. Our Spiritual Care team and First Nations and Métis Health staff can support you by offering and facilitating ceremony, smudging, teachings, and traditional medicines in a respectful and welcoming way. The miyo-opikihitowin Garden and upcoming Indigenous Healing Centre are spaces created for this purpose.
Absolutely. If you believe your loved one would benefit from spiritual care, healing arts, or other forms of support, speak with a nurse or care team member. They’ll help you connect with the right services, including the Mission Office or Spiritual Care team.
You’re not alone. We encourage family members and caregivers to ask questions and share concerns. If you’re looking for spiritual support, guidance, or want to explore holistic care options, you can speak to the care team directly or request a visit from a Spiritual Care Provider or Mission Office representative.
The Mission Office helps ensure all care at St. Paul’s stays rooted in our values of compassion, respect, and dignity. They support staff, host community and hospital events, advise on culturally safe practices, and help patients and families connect with spiritual or emotional care when they need it most.
Visit the Mission Office page to learn more.
Through programs like Schwartz Rounds, staff are invited into safe, facilitated conversations that help them process the emotional challenges of care work. It builds resilience, compassion, and community across departments.
Palliative Care with Purpose
The Palliative Care Unit provides comfort-focused support tailored to the patient’s individual goals and needs. Staff help patients and families navigate this time with empathy, dignity, and love, ensuring that no one faces the journey alone.
Healing Through Nature
The miyo-opikihitowin Garden is a living example of holistic healing. With over 200 native plants, an Indigenous Medicine Circle, and ceremonial spaces, it offers restoration for patients, staff, and community.
Spiritual and Cultural Care
Through the Mission Office, Healing Arts Program, First Nations and Métis Health, and Spiritual Care Team, we offer multi-faith, trauma-informed support and Indigenous cultural ceremonies, including smudging and bundle-making.
Staff Support and Compassion-in-Practice
Programs like Schwartz Rounds ensure that those who care for others receive care themselves, fostering empathy, connection, and reflection among staff.
