‘Walking Angel’ is how one shop worker, in their response to our recent Chaplaincy Impact Survey, described the chaplain who visits their business. They explained by continuing, ‘I was having the worst of days ever, and then the chaplain arrived and listened and empathised. My day improved immediately; the stress stopped, like a reset. It was the kindest thing someone could have done at that moment’. The survey, which sought feedback from workers, chaplains and our supporters, included many such responses.
An initial report of the findings of the survey was discussed by FWW trustees at the end of June. There are lessons to be learnt, useful feedback on how to enable chaplaincy, and better connect with our church partners and supporters. But the headline finding was how impactful the ministry of our chaplains is and how warmly it is received; and how deeply our chaplains feel fulfilled and affirmed in their ministry. Which is why this is the theme for our prayers in July. Giving thanks for our chaplains, and the positive impact they make, in undertaking a ministry of care and compassion in the name of Christ and his Church.
Almighty God, we give you thanks for all our workplace chaplains
and the impact of their ministry which proclaims Christ;
by who they are, and how they care, and share His love.
Guide their steps, inspire their listening, and hear their prayers for those they visit,
In the name of Jesus Christ.
Amen.
Especially we give thanks for:
- All our chaplains, and former chaplains, for their faithful ministry and service.
- The positive impact chaplains have on those they meet.
- The willingness of those who have engaged with the Survey, sharing their experience of chaplaincy and its impact, and the range of feedback given.
- Supporters of FWW, including church and denominational bodies, supporting the ministry of chaplains; through their gifts, advocacy for what we do, and as partners in prayer.
And we pray for:
- Discernment and insight as we study the survey results, and respond to what they tell us.
- Opportunities to share the results of the survey with church partners, supporters and others, and to use this to encourage more people to volunteer as chaplains, and trustees.
- Those our chaplains visit, facing personal and work-related issues and stress, and who shared that in the survey. For healing, hope, and clarity for those concerned for the future of their jobs.
- For those at work where chaplains visit who have not been able to engage with them for various reasons (another finding of the survey) including working part-time and not when chaplains visit, or who choose not to engage.
- Chaplains, trustees (current and former) and supporters who are dealing with long-term health challenges.
- In our cycle of prayer for the work of FWW, volunteers and staff, this month we pray for FWW chaplains in Alvechurch – Sue Brotherton and Helen Ayling.
