Chaplaincy

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Chaplaincy program overview

Coming from a variety of Christian backgrounds, Mission Australia’s chaplains support our staff by offering a listening ear and gentle guidance around religious, spiritual, personal and ethical matters. The chaplaincy program includes building information and resource-sharing partnerships with local Christian churches and faith-based organisations and services to strengthen communities. Our chaplains are also available when people staying in Mission Australia residential facilities or accessing Mission Australia services request their support.

We also have a Community Chaplaincy Program operating in multiple locations. The program supports the people we help and connects them with local churches and faith groups on request.

Respect for the individual's personal journey and the right to their personal beliefs is central to the chaplaincy program, and the confidential support of our chaplains is available to people of any or no faith.

Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.Colossians 3:12b

Caring for staff

The support our chaplains provide is sensitive to the needs of each team or individual. Group support may include presence at team meetings, running prayer/reflection sessions and responding to crises. Individual support can involve coffee catch-ups, referral to other services and facilitation of special occasions. Our chaplains also support Mission Australia’s volunteer chaplains.

The group reflection meetings have encouraged me to explore my spirituality during the pandemic. I appreciate all the prayers I received for the issues I’m facing. The group has been so supportive.Staff member, NSW.

Strengthening community connections

Mission Australia’s chaplains assist with strengthening communities by fostering relationships with local Christian churches and faith-based organisations. This includes sharing information and resources about our own services and other community service providers, encouraging direct and community fundraising and presenting on issues relating to Mission Australia’s work.

Support for people accessing our services

Mission Australia’s clients may request the support of our chaplains. The support provided is always directed by the individual and considerate of their personal circumstances. This may entail facilitation of regular “coffee with the chaplain” sessions, provision of one-on-one support and connection to local churches when asked.