Chaplaincy: To Be an Unhurried Presence
Karen Horsley
Published
Past Vice-President of the USA, Hubert H. Humphrey, is quoted as saying, “the moral test of government is how that government treats those who are in the dawn of life, the children; those who are in the twilight of life, the elderly; and those who are in the shadows of life, the sick, the needy and the handicapped.”
Mr Humphrey is just echoing the instructions of scripture, which teaches us to honour our parents (Ex. 20:12), honour the presence of our elders (Lev. 19:32), and treat the vulnerable with dignified care and respect (Matt. 25:35-36).
AdventCare was established to meet this mandate, with a vision and mission to enrich the lives of the elderly through Christ-centred, excellent care. The Adventist Church has put money where its mouth is and committed funding and support to providing chaplains at each of our facilities.
Unlike nurses or carers who are busy and task-focused, my role as Chaplain enables me to be an unhurried presence, able to stop and focus on the person in front of me for however long is necessary in that moment. Having worked as a school chaplain for 17 years, moving to the aged-care sector was a leap of faith that has been full of unexpected blessings in my life. I have found that I enjoy being the person who has the time to sit with these very experienced people, listen to their life stories, and provide a safe place where they can share and be seen.
Chaplaincy is important because it provides spiritual and emotional support to residents, staff, and families and brings hope in difficult times. To listen well, to really hear them and witness their struggles, is a duty and a privilege. Support offered to families at the end of life is the Chaplain's fundamental responsibility. To be allowed and even invited into that sacred space by family is a true honour. Honest conversations about faith and belief are open, and the hope of the Gospel is shared.
Because of this, I must also know my limitations, be willing to learn from others, and be led by the Holy Spirit. As I minister to people of all cultures and religious backgrounds, I am aware of my need for the wisdom that only God can give.
We provide four weekly worship services and coordinate the Sabbath Church service, which averages 30-45 residents and families. They often express their gratitude for these services, which offer spiritual encouragement.
One of the highlights of my first year in this role was the sacred Christmas concert we held in the Nunawading Adventist Church. More than 200 residents and their families attended. Our Resident Choir led the carol singing, and many talented staff provided special items, and the story of Jesus’ birth was shared.
For anyone considering work in the aged care sector, I encourage you to do so. While it can be challenging, it is immensely rewarding. Serving at AdventCare is a practical avenue to share the love of God, for we embody Christ’s love by caring as Jesus did.
