Meaningful Ways to Provide Comfort

Pain and suffering are inevitable in this life, but we can be there for each other along our journeys. As Christians, we have unique ways to be a support for someone else and be the hands of feet of Christ during someone’s times of great need. 

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Often, those times of great need occur when someone has been admitted to the hospital. Whether they are sick, dying, recovering from surgery or celebrating the birth of a new child, a hospital can be a scary or lonely place for both the patient and their loved ones. As a hospital chaplain, I’ve seen some great ways to be supportive during those times, as well as some ways, albeit well-meaning, that should be avoided. 

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The charge in Matthew 25 to look after and visit the sick is a very literal command and something we can do for our friends, family and church members. Here are a few practical yet meaningful ways you can provide comfort and support to those in need around you today. 

1 | Respect Their Space and Needs

Every person’s experience with illness or life’s trials is different, and their energy levels and desire for interaction may vary. 

• Ask before visiting. A simple, “Would you like company today?” gives them control over their space.
• Keep visits brief unless they want more time. Fatigue is common, and even well-intentioned conversations can be exhausting.
• Be present without pressure. Sometimes, sitting quietly in their room is more comforting than trying to fill the silence. This can truly be a gift.

2 | Offer Practical Help

People who are sick or hospitalized—and their families—often need assistance with daily tasks. Offering specific help can be more meaningful than a general, “Let me know if you need anything.” 

•  Provide meals for their family or arrange a meal train.
• Help with errands like grocery shopping, picking up prescriptions or taking care of pets.
• Offer transportation to and from medical appointments.
• Assist with communication by setting up a group text or online page for updates.

3 | Thoughtful and

1. Comforting Gestures
   
   
2. Meaningful gifts or gestures can lift a person’s spirits without overwhelming them. They don’t need to be costly to be significant.

• Send a handwritten note or card. Words of encouragement mean a lot, especially in times of struggle.
• Gift comforting items like a soft blanket, cozy socks or a favorite book.
•  Create a playlist of soothing music or hymns for them to listen to when they feel anxious or lonely.
• Give them something to do. Puzzle books, adult coloring books or a simple craft can be a welcome distraction.

4 | Spiritual and

3. Emotional Support

As a chaplain offering spiritual care, I have learned that my role is not to push faith but to offer it as a source of comfort if desired. As followers of Christ, we can offer spiritual and emotional support. 

• Ask if they’d like prayer, rather than assuming. Saying something like, “Would it be helpful if I prayed with you?” respects their autonomy.
• Ask if sharing an uplifting Scripture or devotion would be helpful.
• Be a compassionate listener. Instead of trying to fix their pain with cliché phrases or words to fill the silence, allow them to express fears, frustrations or doubts.

5 | Stay Connected

4. Without Pressure

Illness can be isolating, so ongoing connection matters.
Try to be consistent and reliable. Your presence may have a significant impact, even if you're not physically present. 

• Send a simple text such as, “Thinking of you today,” without expecting a reply.
• Check in even after they leave the hospital. Recovery doesn’t end when the patient goes home.
• Remember significant dates, like follow-up appointments or anniversaries of their diagnosis, and reach out with encouragement.

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Showing up for someone who is sick or going through trials is about offering presence, comfort and practical support while respecting their journey. By being intentional, thoughtful and non-invasive, you can provide a deep sense of love, care and faith without overwhelming them.

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By Sonia Vergel, Chaplain at Texas Health Hospital Mansfield, an AdventHealth campus