Brand New Sacred Space Opens at Vernon Jubilee Hospital

The Vernon Jubilee Hospital (VJH) Foundation is proud to announce the opening of the new Sacred Space at VJH.

A sacred space is a faith-neutral area that functions as a spiritual care area, open to patients, families, staff and visitors of VJH. It is a place of peace and tranquility and is always accessible to offer a moment of respite and reflection.

The creation of this sacred space has been a collaborative effort—championed by Interior Health and the VJH Foundation, with inputs from community, spiritual and Indigenous partners. The project also includes a dedicated private office space for spiritual care leads, constructed near the Sacred Space to further enhance spiritual care at VJH.

“Within these walls, we hope that patient families and friends will find a refuge from the stress and anxiety that can often accompany a hospital experience,” said Susan Brown, Interior Health president and chief executive officer. “We recognize that healing isn't just physical; it's emotional and spiritual too. We hope that anyone who uses this space finds moments of peace and strength.

The VJH Foundation has been an integral partner in bringing this collaborative vision to reality, contributing $225,000 to the project.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who helped make this project a reality,” said Kate McBrearty, VJH Foundation executive director. “Through the support of the Hospital Auxiliary, Ulrike and Don Gibbs and our incredible donor community we now have a beautiful, soothing space where diverse cultural, religious, and ethnic communities can find comfort and peace during challenging moments.