Last month, Beverley Linnecor was commissioned as an Anna Chaplain, after an agreement between the Diocese of Salisbury and BRF Ministries was extended to cover the Channel Islands. Warmly supported by her parish of St Michel du Valle (Guernsey) and its Rector, Beverley was commissioned by the Dean of Guernsey for a pastoral ministry amongst older people.
Beverley described the service as ‘the most special, joyous and blessed occasion’, and wrote, ‘I feel, since training, that I am better equipped to take God’s word into the community and fulfil the church’s mission work as identified. I am keen to explore & support new ways to open up the church and God’s message to others.’
Anna Chaplaincy is named after the widow, Anna, who appears with Simeon in Luke’s gospel; both are good role models of faithful older people. It is an ecumenical, accompanying, person-centred ministry of spiritual care for older people of all faiths, cultures, spiritualities and contexts, and for their families and carers. Anna Chaplaincy also offers advocacy for older people within church and community and works with people living independently in their own homes, in sheltered housing and retirement complexes and in residential and nursing homes.
Five Lay Pastoral Assistants in the Ramsbury area are due to be commissioned for this ministry on 4 February 2024 and we are sure that more will follow in due course. Find out more about Anna Chaplaincy here or book a place at the next BRF Introductory Meeting on Zoom on Tuesday 13 February at 10.30am: email annachaplaincy@brf.org.uk