For eight years “others” took care of my father as he lived in and out of rest home facilities. My gratefulness for the efforts my brothers and sisters offered my elderly dad is simply impossible to measure. I remain overwhelmed by their ongoing willingness to ensure his comfort and care.
Thirteen years later, attending what I thought was a hospital chaplaincy introduction, I quickly learnt it was a rest home chaplaincy introduction as well. That point in time had arrived – surprised and happy, I looked up with a grateful grin.
The process began. I met several times with the diocese chaplaincy coordinator, Atje Faber. Atje explained in detail the responsibilities of a chaplain volunteer and answered my long list of questions. Most importantly, she listened, paying close attention to my thoughts and feelings, ensuring rest home chaplaincy was what I wanted to do – which it was, and it is.
Taking the next step, I attended the pastoral, elder care and rest home training last month. The presentations focused on useful, educational content – grace centred conversations, pastoral care, cultural dynamics, listening and self care – all applying to those with or without faith. It was clear that each module had been well considered.
My mind and heart appreciated this training. It was comprehensive and it granted me a well-rounded understanding of my role as a rest home chaplain. It supplied me with solid content to reference when needed, and surrounded me with a group of new and seasoned chaplains to walk with me as I learn my way.
In the weeks ahead, I begin my chaplaincy chapter. I am feeling nervous, yes, but somewhat confident too. Most meaningful to me is that I am so thankful to God for giving me this life opportunity to love and care for my elder brothers and sisters, and to be a family’s “other”.
Check out other articles in the
series below.
More articles in the
series are to come.
We have invited these writers to share their experiences, ideas and opinions in the hope that these will provoke thought, challenge you to go deeper and inspire you to put your faith into action. These articles should not be taken as the official view of the Nelson Diocese on any particular matter.
For eight years “others” took care of my father as he lived in and out of rest home facilities. My gratefulness for the efforts my brothers and sisters offered my elderly dad is simply impossible to measure. I remain overwhelmed by their ongoing willingness to ensure his comfort and care.
Thirteen years later, attending what I thought was a hospital chaplaincy introduction, I quickly learnt it was a rest home chaplaincy introduction as well. That point in time had arrived – surprised and happy, I looked up with a grateful grin.
The process began. I met several times with the diocese chaplaincy coordinator, Atje Faber. Atje explained in detail the responsibilities of a chaplain volunteer and answered my long list of questions. Most importantly, she listened, paying close attention to my thoughts and feelings, ensuring rest home chaplaincy was what I wanted to do – which it was, and it is.
Taking the next step, I attended the pastoral, elder care and rest home training last month. The presentations focused on useful, educational content – grace centred conversations, pastoral care, cultural dynamics, listening and self care – all applying to those with or without faith. It was clear that each module had been well considered.
My mind and heart appreciated this training. It was comprehensive and it granted me a well-rounded understanding of my role as a rest home chaplain. It supplied me with solid content to reference when needed, and surrounded me with a group of new and seasoned chaplains to walk with me as I learn my way.
In the weeks ahead, I begin my chaplaincy chapter. I am feeling nervous, yes, but somewhat confident too. Most meaningful to me is that I am so thankful to God for giving me this life opportunity to love and care for my elder brothers and sisters, and to be a family’s “other”.
Check out other articles in the
series below.
More articles in the
series are to come.
