Exploring -'Accompanying age: what are the churches doing?'- and making valuable contacts in York

York Minster

The weeks seem to have flown by but back in April, Ministry Lead Debbie Ducille travelled to York and enjoyed several gatherings there: the first was a fruitful conversation with diocesan staff and local Anna Chaplains, exploring ideas for an autumn day conference in the area (watch this space!), followed by a wonderful evening with friends and colleagues through Anna Chaplaincy Katherine Froggatt, Hugh Kidd and Maureen O’Neill.

Friends and colleagues' night out

The focus for gathering in York was Christians on Ageing’s AGM and Spring Conference, held at the Bar Convent on April 30. ‘Some weeks may have passed,’ reflects Debbie, ‘but the day itself, with its excellent input, beautiful setting and air of celebration through meeting in person once again remains memorable.’

The conference, entitled ‘Accompanying age: what are the churches doing?’ encapsulated one of CoA’s core objectives – that of celebrating the gifts and potential of later life – and offered a range of thought-provoking input to discuss. Keith Albans as Chair welcomed 40+ participants, and opened the day by introducing the keynote speaker, Revd Dr Chris Swift (Director of Leeds Church Institute). Chris explored the concept of accompaniment, and the enabling of well-being that offers a sense of purpose and gift exchange in relationships, which can be drawn on by both people involved. This resonates, of course, with Anna Chaplaincy’s desire to both serve older people and honour their ongoing contributions in the community.

CoA Chair Keith Albans, and Katherine Froggatt speaking

In the afternoon, it was a pleasure to hear about three examples of good practice in church ministry that can support those in later life. Network member Helen McCormack spoke about how valuing time has been core in the development of her ministry in North Yorkshire; Dr Joanna Walker reflected on the transitions of retirement and a helpful resource for small groups, ‘Retiring Well’ by Helen Calder. Last but not least, Katherine Froggatt did a wonderful job outlining the vision and principles of Anna Chaplaincy as an effective ministry-model and example of what churches can offer in a contextual, grass-roots response.

‘It was wonderful to meet Keith and other CoA colleagues in person for the first time,’ says Debbie, ‘along with an excellent representation of the network! As well as Helen, Katherine and Maureen, I was delighted to meet local Anna Chaplains Rosalyn and Christine, and so pleased to chat further with Roger and Sean, Methodist ministers exploring Anna Chaplaincy from Doncaster circuit. Thank you, CoA: a wonderful, fruitful day for all who could attend.’

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