Blessing of the Buildings: Creating Community Connection during Isolation
Published November 18, 2021
Nicole Giacomino, MA, MT-BC, Manager of Creative Art and Complementary Therapies
Debra Sheridan, MTS, BCC, Director of Pastoral Care
Courtney Ternyila, BA, Business Development Manager
Tara Vellucci Colon, Business Development Manager
During the height of the pandemic, staff at the Visiting Nursing Association Health Group developed an innovative experiential program called “Blessing of the Buildings.” This initiative entailed visiting various sub-acute and long-term care facilities throughout New Jersey to provide a spiritual (non-denominational) ceremony outside each building. Led by prayer and music, these collaborative events acknowledged the lost and lived experiences that patients, families and staff faced during the darkest of times. These gatherings fostered an expression of gratitude, providing a beacon of light and hope during a time when there was overwhelming loss and suffering inside their walls. The human connection inspired by the program filled the emotional void that safe distancing was creating. This program is ongoing and continues to provide community support.
Related content
-
Patient Family & Community Engagement
Navigating Uncertainty: Patient Experiences of BIRADS 0 Mammogram Results
Published August 6, 2026
Objective: Describe experiences of patients receiving BIRADS 0 (inconclusive) mammogram results in electronic health portals. Methods: Recruited eighteen patients who had received BIRADS 0 results via the portal in the last 5 years.Semi-structured interviews yielded qualitative data, analyzed sequentially using the immersion crystallization method to identify content and then iterative coding both individually and in groups. A team
Learn more -
Innovation & Technology
Closing the Loop: Using Real-Time Feedback to Improve Patient Experience
Published June 29, 2026
Healthcare organizations have long relied on post-discharge surveys to understand the patient experience. While valuable, these tools often provide feedback too late to address concerns, recover service failures, or improve care while patients are still receiving treatment. Providence Holy Cross Medical Center sought a more proactive approach by implementing real-time patient feedback that enabled immediate
Learn more -
Innovation & Technology
From Call Light to Connected Care: Advancing Safety, Communication, and Engagement
Published June 22, 2026
St. James Parish Hospital transformed its nurse call system into a digital care platform that improved patient communication, strengthened safety monitoring, and expanded family engagement. Discover the solution that helped create a more informed and connected patient experience. Brought to you by:
Learn more
Ask questions, share insights and connect with other experience leaders.
PX ConnectBecome a member for access to this resource and more:
- Live and On-demand Webinars and Connection Calls
- PX Papers, Case Studies and Research Reports
- PX Connect Online Community
- Discounts on Learning Programs and Events
Become a member for access to this resource and more:
- Live and On-demand Webinars and Connection Calls
- PX Papers, Case Studies and Research Reports
- PX Connect Online Community
- Discounts on Learning Programs and Events
Blessing of the Buildings: Creating Community Connection during Isolation
$49.00
ACCESS NOW