During October’s Spiritual Care week, we put a spotlight on three different ways that Baptists are delivering spiritual care in the wider community.
Meet Rev Robert Hayman – RAAF Chaplain (and BUV Regional Pastor)
“It has been a great privilege to serve in the role of RAAF Chaplain since 2013, which allows me to go onto the RAAF base in East Sale each week. One of the joys in this role is that as a pastor I spend most of my time with church folk, but as a Chaplain I have the opportunity to share with and encourage the aviators who are serving our country who may or may not be people of faith. While I have a religious and ceremonial role, 90% of what I do is simple pastoral care.” Chaplains are well regarded by the Defence Force and seen as a vital part of the health and wellbeing of the organisation. There are about 6 fulltime Defence Chaplains from the BUV and a few more who are reservists serving across Army, Navy and Airforce.
The Chaplains of Carey Baptist Grammar School
With three Chaplains working across two Carey campuses and covering all school sections in the provision of Chaplaincy to all students as well as staff, families, and members of the broader Carey community, there is never a dull day! “As Chaplains charged with the responsibility to provide love, care, kindness, and support to the members of the Carey community, whilst encouraging the development of spiritual awareness and strength, we are not chasing perfection – but we are deeply committed to progress. 2024 was a year of great progress – we stepped forward into the beginnings of a new season of Chaplaincy at Carey. And we look forward now to taking ‘the second step’ in 2025”.
Baptcare delivering Spiritual Care to clients
Baptcare’s framework of Spiritual Care is shaped by its Baptist theological heritage, the National Guidelines for Spiritual Care in Aged Care and evidence-based research.
At Baptcare, spiritual care is provided by a team of Spiritual Care Coordinators and chaplains. This support is provided to our clients, their families and carers.
During Spiritual Care Week, Head of Spiritual Care, Rev James Lewis, thanked his team (pictured) for all the wonderful work they do!
“Spiritual care is person-centred and respects the life journey and spiritual resources of every individual. Enabling whole-person care is about offering a listening and attentive presence in times of crisis and points of reflection. Much of the spiritual care work remains confidential and is completed quietly and sensitively in the background.
This caring presence enables others to find their source of meaning, hope and resilience in the face of life’s many challenges. Our Spiritual Carers are patient, kind and wise in moments of significant emotional turmoil. They host a diverse range of groups and events to support clients and residents, their carers and family.”