Rev. Phyllis Palsma, MDiv, Commissioned at Christian Health

At a special worship service, Rev. Phyllis Palsma, MDiv, was commissioned as Chaplain and Pastoral Resource Coordinator at Christian Health (CH) in Wyckoff. Officiating at the commissioning were other clergy from the Reformed Church in America, colleagues from sister denominations, friends, family, and members of the CH community.

Rev. Palsma brings an extensive background as a pastor, specialist in transitional ministries, care provider, and counselor to her role as CH Chaplain. She also will serve as a leader in CH’s continuing commitment to partner with the broader faith communities, bringing in nationally known speakers, local resource people, and events to support local clergy and congregations in their ministries.

“With her fresh insights, energy, and love of people, Rev. Palsma adds to the Center’s commitment to foster health, healing, and wellness for people of all ages,” said Rev. James Knol, LCSW, Pastoral Care Director/Ramapo Ridge Behavioral Health Chaplain. “She joins four other full-time CH chaplains as part of the Pastoral Careteam whose ministry it is to provide spiritual care to the people CH serves”.

CH’s five ordained ministers serve as full-time chaplains for all of CH’s programs and services. They provide individual care, counseling, and prayer, as well as community-wide worship and small-group experiences to explore issues of faith. They are also available to meet with family members for comfort and consultation.

In addition, CH’s chaplains work closely with local clergy of various denominations and faiths to help them remain involved with their congregants who are staying at CH. While ecumenical worship services are offered several times each week, CH also hosts services of other faiths, including Catholic Mass and sacraments, rabbinical visits, and visits from other spiritual leaders.

For more information about Pastoral Care at CH, call (201) 848-5801 or email PPalsma@christianhealthnj.org

Pictured, first row, from left, are Rev. Kathy Jo Blaske, MDiv, The Longview Assisted Living Residence/Hillcrest/Christian Health Care Woodhaven of Wayne and Wyckoff/Evergreen Court Chaplain; Rev. Phyllis Palsma, MDiv, Chaplain/Pastoral Care Resource Coordinator; and Rev. Sandra Masters, MDiv, BCC, Heritage Manor Nursing Home/Short-term Rehab Chaplain. Pictured, second row, from left, are Rev. James Knol, MDiv, LCSW, Pastoral Care Director/Ramapo Ridge Behavioral Health Chaplain; and Rev. Tim Dunn, LCSW, LCADC. Ramapo Ridge/Southgate Chaplain.