Rev. Percy McCray Jr. has spent more than 20 years ministering to cancer patients and their caregivers. We asked him some questions about health and care
Why do so many Christians believe that placing trust in science nullifies their faith in God?
For many Christians, historically there has been the belief that the world of medicine and science does not acknowledge God as the source of its efforts and understanding, and thus interprets that lack of acknowledgement as irreverence to God.
Consequently, placing one’s faith in a medical community that does not acknowledge God, may suggest that one does not actually believe that God alone is able to heal their sickness and disease without the assistance of manmade philosophies.
How should Christians react when they get a bad diagnosis?
By the instruction of the Holy Scriptures, if that is the guiding force for someone, believers are always encouraged first to pray and seek the will of God in all circumstances.
Receiving any cancer diagnosis, favorable or not will certainly require individuals to seek peace and comfort to assist them in managing the days, weeks, months, or years ahead of them. This will also include receiving medical treatment and care.
Bear in mind, every cancer diagnosis is unique and different, and thus must be examined through the mental, emotional, and medical prism of exact circumstances.
Should Christians only seek out physicians who share their faith?
Certainly, having a physician who shares one’s faith belief system has its benefits, but should not be a deal breaker. Many physicians today are people of deep and abiding faith, who are also comfortable in sharing their faith with patients when appropriate.
Two key things that should be mindful when choosing a physician, how clinically competent are they in their medical area, and do they possess a willingness to partner with and honor their patients’ specific needs, which may include their sense of spirituality.
Is it appropriate for Christians to ask their doctor to pray with them? Or to pray for their doctor?
Today’s modern physicians are more user friendly and versed in ‘whole-person’ care, which aligns with being responsive to patient’s ‘supportive needs’, mental, emotional, and spiritual. It certainly is not unreasonable for one to inquire if their physician would be willing to pray with them, or to be prayed for regarding procedures and care plans.
Doctors who are committed to enabling their patients with ‘whole person’ supportive care measures, understand the importance of building and nurturing a trusting relationship wherewith the patient feels valued and invested in for the greatest possible medical outcome available.
Rev. Percy McCray Jr. has spent more than 20 years ministering to cancer patients and their caregivers at Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA). He recognizes cancer care ministry as a special calling from God and considers faith a key — but often overlooked — component of cancer treatment.
He now serves as the Director of Faith-Based Programs at CTCA and provides leadership to the pastoral care staff at all five CTCA hospitals. In addition, Rev. McCray oversees Our Journey of Hope, a nationwide cancer care ministry training and support program.
