Naming Sacred Space in a Canadian Healthcare Setting: Is the Word "Multifaith" Inclusive of All Beliefs?

The purpose of this article is to outline a quality improvement initiative at St. Joseph's Health Care London, Canada, involving the Spiritual Care Department and the office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging. With an aim to deepen inclusivity and belonging of all traditions, this article outlines the process of assessing the inclusivity of "multifaith" as a name for sacred spaces on our sites, and whether the word is inclusive of all beliefs-for those oriented to faith, or those not oriented to faith or identifiable faith worldview. Engaging patients, residents, volunteers, and care partners, the process considered spiritual care competencies, Catholic health ethics, and equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging principles for decision-making. The article outlines the decision-making process and the eventual conclusion that "multifaith" did exclude some individuals, as well as the process of choosing a new name "Reflection and Prayer Space" that was more inclusive and welcoming. The article highlights the partnership between the spiritual care and equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging, and the importance of acknowledging spiritual diversity and helping develops more welcoming sacred spaces in health care.