Virginia Theological Seminary and General Theological Seminary have made it possible for hospital patients around the country to reach out to priests for prayer and comfort.

Every day we see more and more hospitals overrun due to the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic. For those who are currently being treated, it almost goes without saying how terribly lonely and frightening this ordeal has become.

To curb the fear and isolation felt by the hospital patients, Virginia Theological Seminary and the General Theological Seminary got to work. Together they created Dial-A-Priest, which connects patients to Episcopal clergy members around the country. This free service is available 24 hours a day at 213-423-3600. Please note that this number is for hospital use only.

Since religious leaders can't be on-site to offer spiritual guidance, last rites, or comfort, Dial-A-Priest is the next best thing. Anyone who has stayed in a hospital knows how lonely it can be, far from the comforts of home and familiar faces. The current state of our country's hospitals has made it impossible for loved ones to visit their sick relatives, which makes this situation all the more heartbreaking. 

For those that need a listening ear, prayer, or kind words, don't hesitate to pick up the phone on behalf of a patient. They may feel alone, but in the words of Matthew 18:20, "For where two or three gather in my name, there I am with them."

If you wish to volunteer with Dial-A-Priest, click here or view the below video for more information.