Sacred Spaces and Gathering Places

We recognize the importance for many Indigenous people to gather around loved ones in times of illness, healing and while receiving care. Comfortable spaces are provided within each facility, and where possible, spaces are also available for spiritual and cultural healing practices.

LGH - HOpe Centre

The sacred space is located on the main level of the HOpe Centre. The space incorporates elements of water, cedar, stone and earth to reflect a Coast Salish Longhouse. This space is open to Lions Gate Hospital patients and families. The room can be used for prayer, meditation, and spiritual ceremonies including drumming, smudging and ceremonial use of medicines. This space can accommodate approximately 35 people.

For safety and to ensure patients are not disrupted during private ceremonies or gatherings, it is required that staff inform the HOpe Centre Librarian, the Chaplain, or security when a patient or family intend to use the sacred space. Security should be informed if the users intend to burn medicines.

VGH - Main Hospital 

There is a multi-faith sacred space room in the Centennial Pavilion (ground floor) available for prayer, meditation, and ceremony. The room is set up with fans for smudging or burning of medicines. This space is available at any time for ceremony, prayer, and quiet reflection. Signs on the door indicate whether the room is in use. This space holds approximately 20-30 people.

University of British Columbia (UBC) Hospital

There is sacred space as well as Spiritual Care and Multi-Faith Room in the Purdy Pavilion, not far from the main building. Once in the Purdy Pavilion, signage directs you to these spaces. The sacred space has windows that look out over a tree. The sacred space seats about 10 people. Both rooms are open to patients and visitors.

Richmond General Hospital

An all-faiths quiet room is located within the atrium lounge at the back. It is open from 7am-7pm, but can be accessed after hours by calling the number provided on the door to the room. This room is dedicated for prayer and spiritual reflection. [Yellow Zone]. This is a small space and can only accommodate about 10 people at one time.

The burning of medicines is permitted at all VCH facilities. Health and safety concerns may limit where smudging and burning medicines are permitted at each site. Staff can help find a location that meets patient and family needs.