This past year, Pacific Health Ministry (PHM) celebrated its 35th anniversary as a testament to the enduring power of compassion and integrity. This milestone marks the culmination of a dream envisioned by Reverend Glenn Harada, whose unwavering dedication laid the foundation for PHM’s mission. After moving to Hawai’i, Reverend John Moody joined Glenn in pursuing his dream.

 

From the beginning, Pacific Health Ministry, formerly known as Interfaith Ministries of Hawai‘i, has been fueled by a commitment to compassionate care. This shared purpose paved the way for PHM to become the author of spiritual care (chaplaincy service) in the healthcare community.

 

Initially, John had no intention of moving to Hawai‘i, but everything changed when his wife, Melody, decided to pursue graduate studies at the University of Hawai‘i. At the time, John held the position of Development Chairperson for the Pacific Region of the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education, the national accrediting agency for spiritual care programs. With Melody at the University, John was managing the home.  Recognizing the potential in utilizing some of John’s available time, Glenn invited John to get involved in creating a model for chaplaincy services at Hawai’i hospitals.  Glenn, who was actively involved in multiple nonprofit boards, was aware that other attempts at serving the hospitals did not materialize.  He saw a common issue: many lacked effective planners.  John’s adept writing skills and forward-thinking mindset were invaluable, always contemplating “what’s next.”

 

 

Despite lacking funds, Rev. John accepted the offer and assumed the role of Executive Director of Interfaith Ministries of Hawai‘i on January 1, 1987. Rev. Glenn remarked, “We were very fortunate we had John. If we didn’t have him, we wouldn’t be here now.”

 

Following a number of surveys at Queen’s Medical Center Punchbowl, Kuakini Medical Center, and Kapi’olani Medical Center for Women and Children, the institutions expressed interest in integrating chaplaincy services in the patient and family care services they provided. In its first year, PHM left a lasting impression. Hospital administrators were amazed by the impact of the chaplains, recognizing their immediate value which led to creating long term contracts and relationships that have lasted 35 years.

 

As PHM evolved, its role within the healthcare landscape expanded from a proposal for a single hospital to a network of support across multiple institutions. It now has programs established at twelve medical centers including Good Samaritan Society – Pohai Nani, Hawai‘i State Hospital, Kaiser Foundation Hospitals, Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women & Children, Kuakini Medical Center, Maui Memorial Medical Center, Pali Momi Medical Center, Straub Clinic & Hospital, The Queen’s Medical Center, The Queen’s Medical Center  West Oʻahu, Wilcox Medical Center and REHAB Hospital of the Pacific.

 

Rev. John said, “The secret to thriving at 35 years old isn’t just about creating a model program; it’s about providing pastoral care with integrity and excellence.  It’s about being present and involved when serious things happen.  And it’s about recognizing the importance of caring for the healthcare staff alongside patients.

 

In reminiscing about PHM’s history, Glenn fondly recalls individuals like Chaplain Kiyo Itokazu, whose straightforward approach and compassionate demeanor left a lasting impression. “There are countless instances where our chaplains have been there for both patients and staff during challenging times,”  He continues, “regardless of specific circumstances, the essence remains the same: PHM chaplains are there to provide spiritual care and support to everyone in the hospital community, fostering resilience and well-being in the face of adversity.”

 

Despite the shifting demographics and financial constraints of modern healthcare, PHM remains steadfast in its mission. The heart of PHM lies not within the confines of hospital walls, but in the connections forged through care and empathy. Glenn shares, “It’s hard to find people like John who do it because they love it. It was never about the chaplaincy – it was about the calling.”

 

As PHM moves forward, it stays grounded in the values that have defined its path. Guided by compassion and integrity, PHM remains committed to fostering healing and hope within the communities it serves.

 

To this day, John and Glenn remain steadfast supporters of Pacific Health Ministry and close friends.