Faith Flags:

A Gentle Tool for Spiritual Engagement in Medical Ministry

Faith flags are subtle cues that help determine if someone might be open to spiritual conversations. For those of us in medical ministry, faith flags can be incredibly useful in gauging whether a patient might want to discuss matters of faith, or if we should let the topic rest. This concept was introduced to me during my family practice residency at Florida Hospital by Dr. Walt Larimore in his seminar “The Saline Solution,” sponsored by the Christian Medical and Dental Assoication. Of all the helpful ideas he shared, faith flags stood out, offering a way to approach spirituality naturally and respectfully in any conversation.

What Are Faith Flags?

Faith flags are brief, unassuming comments woven into everyday conversations that communicate that faith, God, the Bible, or prayer are important to us. They are not intended to pressure anyone or disrupt the conversation. Instead, they serve as gentle indicators that if a person wishes, the door is open for them to pursue spiritual topics. Faith flags can feel like natural pauses in the conversation, providing room for the other person to respond if they’re interested.

Faith Flags Protocol: Principles for Effective Use

Dr. Larimore laid out some simple guidelines for using faith flags effectively:

• Keep it Natural: Faith flags should blend seamlessly into the conversation without feeling forced.
• Be Brief: A short comment or question works best, as it lets the other person decide if they want to continue on this topic.
• Reveal a Spiritual Dimension: Faith flags share a small insight into your own spiritual perspective without being intrusive.
• Watch, Don’t Demand: Look for a response but don’t pressure for one. Faith flags create space for the other person to express interest or move on.
• Open Opportunities Gently: Sometimes, you might create an opening for faith-based discussion if the situation feels right. However, it’s important not to assume everyone will want to engage.

Faith Flags Will Avoid…

Faith flags aren’t an invitation to overwhelm someone with information or push into deep theological discussions. Instead, they avoid:

• Overloading with Information: A faith flag isn’t a mini-sermon; it’s a single comment or observation.
• Using Religious Jargon: Avoid terms or concepts that might be confusing or off-putting.
• Discussing Doctrine: The goal isn’t to get into church-specific topics or debates.
• Excusing Behavior with Faith: Be mindful not to use faith as an excuse for action or inaction; faith flags are about inviting understanding, not explaining away actions.

Examples of Faith Flags in Action

In my practice, I’ve found faith flags to be incredibly effective. Here are a few examples of situations that allowed for natural, unassuming engagement:

1. Observing Cues from Patients: If a patient has a Bible with them, a piece of religious jewelry, or a T-shirt with a verse, these can be natural conversation starters. I might say, “Do you read the Bible often?” or, “That’s an interesting shirt. What does it mean to you?”
2. Noting Patient Reactions: Sometimes, patients express gratitude or relief with phrases like “Praise God” when they receive good news. I might respond, “I agree, it’s wonderful to see positive results!” This allows us to affirm their spiritual beliefs without pushing further unless they want to.
3. Acknowledging Tough Experiences: Patients often have painful stories to share. Asking where they find strength in hard times can reveal their spiritual foundation or lack of it. Some will point to their faith, while others focus on inner resilience. Both responses help us respond compassionately, knowing where they stand spiritually.
4. Faith Flag Questions for Believers: If someone openly expresses faith, more direct questions can be insightful, such as, “What do you think God is trying to teach you through this?” These questions show that we acknowledge their faith and are willing to discuss it if they are comfortable doing so.

Dr. Larimore also shared some examples from his own practice:

• In conversations about child-rearing, he might say, “Some of our best ideas for raising children came from the Bible.”
• When speaking to someone with marital challenges, he might comment, “I’ve been surprised by how much insight the Bible has on marriage.”
• In discussions about chronic conditions, a comforting note like, “I love what the Bible says about eternity—when there will be no more tears or pain,” can be reassuring.

Encouragement to Use Faith Flags

Faith flags provide a respectful, effective way to navigate spirituality in conversations without pushing anyone into uncomfortable territory. They allow medical practitioners, pastors, and others in ministry to openly share that faith is important to them and encourage others to explore their spiritual lives if they wish.

If you’re in a position where faith might be part of your interactions, consider trying out a faith flag. Keep it brief, natural, and allow the other person to decide where the conversation goes. Sometimes, you’ll find that this gentle approach opens doors for meaningful discussions; other times, it simply builds trust and rapport. Either way, faith flags can serve as a valuable tool, helping you meet patients where they are—spiritually and emotionally.

The author invites you to comment on this article. Whether you agree or have a different perspective, please enter your comments in the space below.