On Sunday, 11 June, Pam Southam and Rachel Moore were commissioned to serve with the growing team of Anna Chaplains in the diocese. Revd Mike Taylor commissioned Pam as an Anna Chaplain and Rachel as an Anna Friend. Pam and Rachel at St. Peter's Church, Freshford the were joined by Wendy Haslam, Bath and Wells Diocesan Lead for Anna Chaplaincy, and Patricia Hellier, an experienced Anna Friend.
The service highlighted the dedicated ministry of Anna Chaplains to provide person-centred spiritual care for older people living in their own homes, sheltered housing, or in care homes, and also to offer support to their families, friends and care staff. The need for such pastoral and spiritual support is highlighted by figures from the Office of National Statistics which predicts a significant increase in the population of over 85’s in the coming years.
There are a variety of roles which Anna Chaplains can undertake; from one to one pastoral and spiritual support for older people, to designing and leading worship services, being involved in end-of-life and funeral ministry and bereavement care, or raising awareness of the needs of older people.The Chaplains can be lay or ordained, male or female.
If you would like to know more or if you have any other questions please email Wendy Haslam, Bath and Wells Diocesan Lead for Anna Chaplaincy.There is more information about Anna Chaplaincy on the Anna Chaplaincy website.
Pam Southam and Rachel Moore have now begun their Anna Chaplaincy journey, ready to make a difference in the lives of those they will serve.