'Deeply moving and encouraging', 'We felt really blessed' - say chaplains of Winchester service

Capturing the 'Ecumenical joy' as Anna Chaplains, Friends and supporters joined clergy after the service of Evensong

Anna Chaplain Carol Kidd was among those attending Sunday's Evensong for Anna Chaplaincy at Winchester Cathedral (February 22) . She has written to diocesan and cathedral staff as well as to BRF Ministries to express gratitude:

'On behalf of the Caraway and East side of Southampton' Anna Chaplains, Anna Friends and supporters, thank you for the warm welcome and meaningful Evensong on Sunday. You may watch the recorded service here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dq8aUbGOyNs

Anna Chaplaincy Pioneer Debbie Thrower, Head of Mission and Ministry for Winchester Diocese the Revd Dr Amy Roche, Canon Treasurer Andrew Micklefield (formerly Vicar of Alton), Bishop Rhiannon King, Bishop of Southampton, Canon Julian Poppleton, Cathedral Chaplain, Canon Richard Fisher, CEO of BRF Ministries and Debbie Ducille, Ministry Lead for Anna Chaplaincy at BRF

Here are just a couple of the comments from various chaplains from our local group, Carol Kidd added:

'It was deeply moving and encouraging'

'As chaplains we felt "really blessed"'

'Seeing the gathered group at the end of the service brought "Ecumenical joy" and made "hearts sing"'

'Bishop Rhiannon's message was perfect'

'We are so blessed to have Bishop Rhiannon's input & encouragement.'

Anna Chaplain Carol Kidd

The Southampton-based charity Caraway is dedicated to providing 'Chaplaincy and Dementia Services to Older People in Southampton'. Their own account of what Sunday's service of Choral Evensong for Anna Chaplaincy meant to them can be read in full here:

https://www.caraway.uk.com/about-us/news/winchester-diocese-partnering-with-anna-chaplaincy/

'The Diocese of Winchester has pledged its support for this vital ministry and is working towards the inspiring goal of appointing an Anna Chaplain in every benefice. This commitment reflects a deep recognition of the importance of pastoral and spiritual care for older generations.'

'The service of Evensong was both peaceful and uplifting' they reported. 'Around 50 Anna Chaplains gathered together including many of Caraway’s wonderful chaplains. Rhiannon King, Bishop of Southampton, spoke movingly about the unique and deeply valued role of Chaplains in offering compassionate presence and hope. She also highlighted the beautiful truth that there is no retirement ag'Deeplye for being a Chaplain — a vocation rooted in lifelong calling and care.'

Caraway, Southampton

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