In The Press

“In I Am Here For You Chaplain Blaine movingly addresses his hospital colleagues. He uses humor and gentleness to explain a chaplain's work, and he moves his readers past shallow stereotypes, like chaplain merely as “calm presence” or “professional mourner.” He outlines how a chaplain engages the whole hospital system, but he does much more! The beauty and richness of enlivened chaplaincy is demonstrated through his weekly notes to staff. He engages his colleagues; he acknowledges the oft unacknowledged: the human vulnerability witnessed in a hospital is not only that of the patients, but of all who work there. Caring for those who suffer highlights the suffering we all face. In collectively acknowledging this, we strengthen each other. All are ministers in this setting, for “God uses common and ordinary people for uncommon and extraordinary blessings." This book, spirited and personal, is written for anyone who works in healthcare, regardless of role, and for anyone seeking grace in the midst of suffering.”

~Donald J. Camp, Sr. Director, Lurie Children’s Primary Care - Town and Country Pediatrics, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago

“I’ve been graced by reading Gary Blaine’s writings for years. Week after week, his sermons contain wisdom, keen observation, compassion, and the invaluable ability to find godliness in everyday joys, routines, and suffering. In this volume, Gary demonstrates the same holy virtues. There are so many good stories, so many profound insights, in this collection. But perhaps most of all, there is ample evidence that Gary attended, that he was fully present and available to the people he served. Gary often closes these reflections with a reminder to the staff, “I am here for you.” After reading these columns, readers are likely to feel Gary was there for and with them, too.”

~Dr. Gary Peluso-Verdend, President Emeritus, Phillips Theological Seminary