More than 70 people heard about the role of religion in bioethics and discussed ethical dilemmas that spiritual caregivers commonly face during the 20^th annual Rev. Jerry Shave Clergy Day, hosted by Upstate's Center for Spiritual Care.

The event took place June 14 at the Setnor Academic Building and the Center for Bioethics and Humanities. Leola Rogers, MPH, associate administrator for the Golisano Children‘s Hospital, welcomed participants to the presentation designed to help clergy, who range from seminarians and chaplains to lay pastoral caregivers.

Gregory Eastwood MD, a professor in Bioethics and Humanities, presented key ethical concepts that relate to hospital ministry and bioethics resources at Upstate. Kathy Faber-Langendoen MD, a professor in the same department, provided case illustrations that opened thoughtful discussion.

Participants talked about several cases that have influenced end-of-life care, including that of Karen Ann Qunilan, and Nancy Cruzan, and Terri Schiavo.

Discussions also centered on the new Family Health Care Decisions Act and its impact on advanced directives. The bioethics faculty has expertise in medicine, philosophy, law, literature and the social sciences.