Integrating Relational Ethics in Spiritual Care for Asian American Patients and Families

This webinar presents a literature review and case study, looking at how chaplains can learn from their experiences with Asian American patients and families. It suggests that chaplains can use principles of fairness, cultural values, and relational ethics to support these families.

By using theories from Boszormenyi-Nagy and Bowen, it shows the importance of balancing personal needs with family duties, resolving generational conflicts, and addressing power imbalances that cause spiritual and relational problems. Cultural traditions like Confucian filial piety and Muslim khidmat (service) connect caregiving to identity and relationships, helping chaplains honor these traditions during crises and find strength from the post-migration legacies. Studies on immigrant and Asian American families highlight issues like “saving face” and shame, encouraging chaplains to create safe spaces for open conversations while respecting cultural norms. By combining relational ethics with tools that align personal beliefs and family unity, chaplains can better understand and empathize with complex family issues and find meaning through their values. This approach focuses on cultural humility, ethical fairness, and compassionate listening, helping chaplains support healing and connection in diverse family journeys.

Please register here. 

We thank Garrett-Evangelical Theology Seminary for their support of this webinar! Garrett Seminary offers programs designed to prepare you to offer compassionate, trauma-informed care with the support and training needed to serve faithfully and effectively. Whether you are pursuing a Master of Arts in Pastoral Care and Counseling, a Master of Divinity (MDiv) with a concentration in Pastoral Care and Counseling, a Doctor of Ministry (DMin) in Spiritual Direction, or a PhD in Pastoral Theology, Garrett equips you to meet the emotional and spiritual needs of those you serve.

Learn more at garrett.edu/chaplaincy and request more information at https://www.garrett.edu/garrett-chaplaincy-lp/.

Find Garrett also on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/garrettseminary and LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/school/garrettseminary.

We have indexed this webinar to the following learning outcomes; they should not be construed as an endorsement by APC or BCCi:

APC BCCi outcomes:

ITP4: Incorporate a working knowledge of different ethical theories to one’s professional context.

PIC1: Be self-reflective, including identifying one’s professional strengths and limitations in the provision of care.

PIC4: Function in a manner that respects the physical, emotional, cultural, and spiritual boundaries of others.

PPS3: Provide spiritual care that respects diversity and differences including but not limited to culture, gender, sexual orientation and spiritual/religious practices.

Judd Hu, DMin, BCC

Judd Hu is an APC Board-Certified Chaplain and healthcare leader whose professional endeavors encompass spiritual care, ethical advocacy, cross-cultural vision, and management. Judd currently serves as a staff chaplain at Providence Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital in Northern California.

Judd’s career in hospice and palliative care spans over eight years, including chaplaincy roles at VITAS Healthcare and Heartland/ProMedica Hospice. He has developed innovative end-of-life and bereavement programs and supported healthcare workers through individual and public crises. He holds an M.Div. and D.Min. in Spiritual Direction. Having a background in business administration, Judd aims to integrate operational excellence with compassionate care and speak for spiritual care in the “languages of business, data, and management.”

Judd came from mainland China. Fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese, he brings a intercultural sensitivity to his work. He worships at a Quaker meeting with his family.