Valley Baptist Health System (VBHS) has the call to serve the people of Harlingen and the Lower Rio Grande Valley as it relates to the health care needs of this community.

This mission is to serve the community in a holistic manner. This attention to the mind, body and spirit of all we serve has always been a leading influence throughout our history. Therefore, the Department of Pastoral Services exemplifies the strong commitment of the VBHS to care for the spiritual needs of its patients and their families.

The Department of Pastoral Services is integrated into a network of support systems in the medical center, with a clearly defined focus on the spiritual needs of the patients, families and staff. Chaplains are available for the spiritual support of patients and their families 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you would like to talk with a chaplain, you may call 956-389-1194. The department office is located on the first floor of the hospital. Enter the South Tower, make a left as you reach our Chapel, follow the hall as it turns right and our office is the first door on the left hand side.

Valley Baptist Chaplains minister to people of all faith. We respect all religious traditions. Staff and resident chaplains make pastoral visits in all units of the hospital. They provide direct pastoral intervention by offering support to patients and their families through prayer, grief ministry, and referral. All our chaplains are trained to attend to the needs of patients and their families in crisis, in times of spiritual distress or celebration and in times when there is a need for spiritual feedback. We will also assist a patient in contacting his or her own minister or faith group representative.

As a member of the Baptist General Convention of Texas Human Welfare Coordinating Board family of institutions, Valley Baptist Health System also relates directly to other Baptist hospitals in Texas who share our vision and purpose for Christian healthcare.