Research led by Lawson Research Institute, the research arm of St. Joseph's Health Care London, highlights the role of 'sacred moments' in addressing clinician burnout and strengthening patient trust, according to a July 6 report. These brief but meaningful connections—such as quiet conversations or shared reflections—are defined as short experiences of deep connection, awe, or a sense that time stands still.
The findings, published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine under the title 'Sacred Moments in Healthcare: An evidence-based conceptual model,' show that sacred moments are associated with greater meaning at work, improved emotional health, and reduced burnout among clinicians. The report notes these improvements can contribute to better patient care.
St. Joseph's Health Care London became the first Canadian hospital to join the Sacred Moments Initiative led by the University of Michigan. Dr. Serena Wong, psychologist at St. Joseph's and first author of the report, said key factors fostering these experiences include emotional presence, supportive leadership, and opportunities for reflection. The research encourages practical strategies such as Sacred Moment Rounds co-led by spiritual care staff and other trained clinicians to create spaces where colleagues can share these moments.
Wong also co-authored a study exploring sacred moments in Japanese healthcare settings which found that once explained to clinicians and patients there, most reported having experienced such moments during healthcare visits. In a survey cited within the research involving 629 physicians, 67.7 percent reported experiencing a sacred moment with a patient; among those respondents, 76 percent said they felt less burned out afterward (Ameling et al., 2025). However, fewer than five percent shared those experiences with colleagues.
Wong said many health care workers describe their profession as a calling but face pressures that take physical, emotional and spiritual tolls: "Research suggests sacred moments can help alleviate stress and burnout by reminding us why we became doctors, nurses, social workers and providers in the first place... it takes support from leaders and peers to reconnect with that sense of purpose." She added that while not a cure-all for burnout, "sacred moments invite heart and soul back into health care by emphasizing care for body, mind and spirit." Dale Nikkel, Manager of Spiritual Care at St. Joseph’s Health Care London, stated: "Being the first Canadian hospital means we are choosing to be innovative leaders in nourishing spiritual health—and leading with compassion to build a culture where staff feel supported, seen and connected to our purpose... It reflects St. Joseph’s commitment to caring for the whole person—body, mind, especially spirit."
