News of Debbie Ducille's trips to York and Birmingham this autumn

debbiethrower0
13 minutes ago
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Training and speaking events in November

Never a dull day for Ministry Lead Debbie Ducille as she took to the road again helping organise and co-lead a day event in York on November 13, and offering a day’s training for Church of England Birmingham’s commissioned pastoral care teams on November 22.

At both events, she said, 'a mixed programme was offered with reflection on the particularities of old age as a season of life, an exploration of the spirituality of ageing, and a brief overview of Anna Chaplaincy as a response to the growing need for older peoples’ ministry across the church in the UK.'

In York, local Anna Chaplains and diocesan staff planned and delivered a mixed programme for approximately 60 people. They came from right across Yorkshire. The day included conversations around practical responses and contexts. For many, the event was particularly affirming, thanks to meeting like-minded others. It offered a chance to hear about training, resources and new networks in this vital area of pastoral ministry.

‘The group discussions were described as 'very helpful.' 'A fabulous event!’ said another participant. It is anticipated that a similar day-event will be offered again in 2026 in Beverley, East Yorkshire.

Meanwhile, committed, experienced pastoral care teams battled through heavy rain in Birmingham to spend the day in training with not one, but two Debbies! Debbie Gurling, now Older Peoples’ Pastor at St John’s Harborne, was an Anna Chaplain for Springfield, Sparkhill and Tyseley for six years previously.

Debbie said: 'She told narratives that embedded principles and shared-learning from the morning.'

‘It is always a privilege to meet with fellow Christians who are committed to older peoples’ ministry, and willing to give up a whole day to learn more! Both events were well-attended and well-supported by the local church, for which I’m so grateful.’