Spiritual Care Services
Healing for the hurts that go soul-deep
For far too many of us, life comes with challenges that can be overwhelming. We suffer loss in so many ways, and when we do, the grief can take our breath away. And even when we are spared those losses, we can often struggle to find meaning in our lives or fulfillment in our relationships. Tension replaces peacefulness and fear replaces love. But the wounds so many of us hide inside are an open secret to the God who loves us and gave us life.
At GraceMed, we consider it to be a part of our calling to make care available that will restore the whole health of our patients, including their spiritual health. We respect everyone's beliefs as well as their right to hold those beliefs privately. Our chaplains are available to those who choose to seek their counsel with the deepest commitment to their dignity and privacy. They are here to listen, pray with you and help you access God's grace as you cope with the spiritual battles you are confronting. If you are a patient who would like to talk with one of our chaplains, our providers are ready and willing to refer you to them at your request.
Steve Slack
Director of Spiritual Care
Education: Nazarene Theological Seminary, Doctor of Ministry | Emmanuel Christian Seminary, M.Div. | Manhattan Christian College
Steve brings to GraceMed a significant amount of local church pastoral experience in a wide variety of ministry settings. Since 2017, he has been responsible for directing and coordinating all of our spiritual care efforts geared toward patients and staff alike. Steve grew up in Wichita, enjoys sports, history and says, “Serving at GraceMed presents amazing opportunities every day to come alongside patients and staff helping them take new steps of faith.”
Phillip Cly
Chaplain
Education: Grand Canyon Theological Seminary, M.A. | Grand Canyon University, B.A.
Phillip began serving the Wichita area clinics in May 2022. Phillip and Don share responsibility for serving the clinics in Wichita, McPherson, and Clearwater. Phillip is a Marine Corps Veteran and enjoys watching John Wayne movies when not out on the lake fishing. He is also a fan of the Dallas Cowboys and the Oklahoma Sooners. Phillip says, “GraceMed sets itself apart from all the other clinics as it renders assistance for the WHOLE person – Mind, Body, & Spirit.”
Donald Smith
Chaplain
Education: Bellevue University, B.S.
Don has served the Wichita area clinics since 2019 and brings a great depth of life experience and pastoral ministry work to GraceMed. Don and Phillip share responsibility for serving the clinics in Wichita, McPherson, and Clearwater. Don brings a wonderful sense of humor, humility, and wisdom to our patients and staff each week. He is a former City of Omaha firefighter and enjoys cooking and providing “sweet treats” for the GraceMed staff. Don says, “GraceMed is uniquely equipped for those desiring physical and/or spiritual care.”
Huston Thompson
Chaplain
Education: Georgia Military College, University of Maryland Extension, Institute of Alcoholism Studies, Seminary of Urban Christian Leadership/The Urban Ministry Institute of Topeka, KS
Huston served 20 years in the U.S. Navy, providing Fleet Communications and counseling many sailors who had problems relating to alcohol and other health concerns. He retired from the Navy in 1993, remaining in the Los Angeles area until his 3 boys graduated high school. Upon his return to his hometown of Topeka, he has continued to enjoy the hobby of Amateur Radio since being licensed in his mid-teens. Prior to GraceMed, he was on the staff at First Southern Baptist Church, providing pastoral care and counseling. He continues to be the Ministry Leader for their Celebrate Recovery Ministry. Huston is thankful to be a part of God's Plan and Purpose in GraceMed's mission of serving our patients’ and Staff's spiritual needs and growth in faith.