Spotlight on Chaplain Lisa Kroener
National Pastoral Care Week, also known as National Spiritual Care Week, is this week, October 19–25. In recognition of the importance of our Chaplains we are shining a spotlight on Chaplain Lisa Kroener of Crossroads in Memphis. She’s been a steady and compassionate presence for patients and their families since 2002.
Bringing Light, Peace and Presence to Patients and Families
For Chaplain Lisa Kroener becoming a chaplain wasn’t one single calling, it was a series of “seeds” planted throughout her life. After college, she worked with young children at her home church in Murphysboro, Illinois, where congregation members encouraged her to pursue ministry.
Around the same time, her aunt entered hospice care, an experience that influenced Lisa’s path greatly.
“I saw what hospice meant to people and I was so appreciative,” she recalls.
Lisa eventually moved to Memphis to attend seminary and to complete her Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) at a United States Veterans Medical Center. Those experiences confirmed her calling to chaplaincy and in August 2002, she joined Crossroads, where she’s been serving patients and families ever since.
A typical day begins with a team report at the office, followed by a mix of patient visits across assisted living facilities, nursing homes and private residences.
Love, Support & an Open Ear
Her focus each day is simple, yet deep: to bring comfort and presence. “It always comes back to being there,” she says. “Letting people talk, hearing their stories and bringing a sense of peace.” Whether patients have a strong faith background or none at all, Lisa believes her role is to reassure them that they are surrounded by love, support and an open ear.
One experience that continues to inspire her happened many years ago while visiting a patient at the very end-of-life. “The patient looked so peaceful, it was so different. Their eyes were barely open, just slightly focused,” she remembers.
“It was like they were seeing a brighter light. I knew God was in control there.” After more than two decades of service, Lisa’s approach remains grounded in presence and listening, though she continues to grow each day.
To those interested in chaplaincy, Lisa recommends talking with local pastors, volunteering or shadowing a chaplain. “Hands-on experience is best.”
Outside of her work, Lisa finds balance through quiet reflection, walks in the sun, working on her home and starting each morning with coffee and devotionals. What inspires her most are the people she meets each day and the opportunities each new day brings. “Even if yesterday wasn’t great, today is full of new opportunities.”
Chaplain Kroener’s journey is a testament to the power of compassion and presence. With every visit she helps patients and families find strength, meaning and a sense of calm at the end of life.
