Senator Warner met with about 50 leaders of the faith community in Hampton Roads on Friday to start a conversation about the health reform legislation he introduced last week, the 2009 Senior Navigation and Planning Act.

The proposal would enhance resources and counseling options available to patients and families facing life-limiting illnesses, and it is designed to increase health care options and improve the patient's quality-of-life.

The group was assembled by the Virginia Interfaith Center on Public Policy, and the event was hosted by the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Virginia.

Several ministers told Senator Warner that, generally, church leaders don't have enough knowledge about end-of-life medical care and the kinds of early planning that people can make. The Virginian-Pilot was at the meeting:

'The Very Rev. John Agbaje, rector of St. James Episcopal Church in Portsmouth, said early conversations about preparing for terminal care aren't common.

"By the time we get to the hospital, it's almost too late," he said.

Even trying organize a congregation discussion about terminal care is difficult, said Rabbi Rosalin Mandelberg of Ohef Sholom Temple in Norfolk.

"We find that people don't come because they're afraid," she said. "It's almost like talking about it will make it happen."

Perhaps the strongest approach is to use the medical professionals in congregations to advise members, said Sister Margaret McCabe, a Roman Catholic nun who is also a nurse practitioner. They understand the church's beliefs but also can explain the medical issues, she said.

"They have credibility within their own community." ...

... When asked by a minister how he felt about the chances that a health care overhaul bill will be passed, Warner clasped his hands, looked up at the ceiling and said, "Prayerful... I think there is a chance."'

Click here to read the whole story on the Pilot's website -- and be sure the check out their photo gallery.

WAVY-TV10 health reporter Stephanie Harris also covered the Senator's meeting with the faith community: