Here for you in all seasons
An ecumenical ministry which has established in Central Otago, from the Teviot Valley, to Maniātoto, across to Cromwell, with the districts in between and extending up the Clutha Valley.
The Lead Chaplain is Revd Stephen Gully.
What out for the team at local A and P Shows.
Commissioning the Team
Stephen Gully reported on the commissioning service for the first Central Otago team:
An ecumenical group of Rural Chaplaincy supporters have been gathering, learning and being formed over the last two years. 28 September was a significant day for four of that group and the newly Appointed Lead Rural Chaplain Central and North Otago, because they were commissioned and licensed by the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Dunedin the Rt. Rev’d Dr Anne Van Gend.
Around thirty friends and supports from Southland and Otago joined the four Rural Chaplains: Revd. Jeanette (Jen) Chamberlain, Revd. Steve Mitchell, Revd Craig Smith and Sheila Smith and Lead Rural Chaplain Revd. Stephen Gully at St Aidan’s Anglican Church, Alexandra, to celebrate the commissioning.
Archdeacon, The Ven. Damon Plimmer, lead the service of song, prayer, explanation of Rural Chaplaincy by The Ven. Barb Walker, Lead Rural Chaplain Southern, speaking and commissioning by + Anne. The Chaplains were provided with gifts for their Ministry:
- Holding Cross – Representative of our faith in Jesus, the Spirit & the Word, in which we are and Minister from.
- Name badge and Fluro Vest – Our identity to those who we minister to.
- Anointing oil – Our bringing the sacred, healing and restoration.
- Coffee Cup – A symbol of hospitality and relationship.
- Map – Setting out the area of the flock you will be Shepherding.
St Aidan’s parish provided afternoon tea so that all who were gathered could enjoy fellowship after the commissioning.
As this group of Chaplains venture into their respective areas you will hear more of the work that God is doing through them.
