Elim equips chaplains at 2 day conference

Elim has approximately 50 chaplains working in areas that include education, healthcare, prisons, the armed forces and the emergency services. Each September, a chaplaincy conference is held in Malvern in conjunction with Apostolic Church UK and AoG, to equip existing and future chaplains.

The 2 day chaplains conference, which runs from 2-3 September, is a vital part of chaplain ministry, bringing together remarkable women and men who are engaged on the front lines share and inspire each other.

As joint hosts of the event, David Spademan (AoG) and Nigel Tween (Elim) will introduce speakers Dave Russon (NHS and Community Chaplain), Richard Ellingham (Navy Chaplain Recruiter) and Dave Newton (Elim's Director of Training).

Booking for this year's event closes on Friday 31 July, with onsite accommodation bookable at the Elim Conference Centre, with single and twin room options.

The role of a chaplain

The aim of a chaplain is to care for people at their point of need, by communicating the love of Christ in a compassionate and practical way. Equipped with theological training and pastoral care, chaplains minister to people in many life-situations and particularly to those facing deeply distressing situations, enabling them to better cope with periods of instability.

The opportunities for chaplaincy are as diverse as the communities we serve. Some of the areas that chaplains serve include sport clubs, hospitals, aged homes, prisons, universities and colleges, schools, police, fire and rescue, the ambulance Service, military, detached youth work, shopping centres and airports.

Learning from each other

One of Elim Training's roles is to bring together chaplains, so they can get to know others working in similar fields, as well as to share knowledge and best practice. They also work to equip and encourage chaplains, recognising the importance of their vital work.

If you are an experienced chaplain or new to chaplaincy ministry, you are warmly invited to attend this years chaplains conference. Also, if you or someone you know, is interested in finding out what is involved in the role of chaplain and may be want to become one in your locality, this is a great event to find out more.

Find out more at www.elim.org.uk/chaplains