The Relationship of Chaplaincy to Authority
A Gathering for Christian Chaplains in Somerset
Our annual Chaplaincy Gathering will take place on Tuesday 6 October. This is our main diocesan gathering for chaplains from across different sectors and settings, offering space for reflection, learning, mutual support and connection.
This year we will be exploring the relationship of chaplaincy to authority. Chaplains often work in complex settings, close to systems of power and responsibility, while carrying a different kind of authority rooted in presence, trust, faith and pastoral care. The day will help us reflect on how chaplains hold that space wisely, faithfully and well.
We currently have three main talks planned:
- Holding Authority Without Power — Andrew Hillier, Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons
- Holding Chaplaincy Within Organisational Authority — Clare Barton, St Margaret’s Hospice Care
- The Source of Authority in Chaplaincy — Karen Murphy, former Spiritual Care Lead at Weston Hospicecare
There will also be practical workshops, including:
- Leading from the Middle: Navigating Power and Responsibility
- Holding the Ministry: Sustaining Chaplaincy in Complex Environments
- Being There: The Ministry of Presence in Everyday Chaplaincy
- When It Gets Difficult: Responding to Real-Life Situations
The day will include worship, talks, workshops, space for conversation, and time to reconnect with other chaplains across the diocese.
This year we are also offering members an opportunity to have a chat about your role, or anything related to it, with an experienced chaplain. Ann Fulton, who spoke last year, has led Spiritual Care at St Margaret’s Hospice Care for 12 years and before that was a parish priest in this Diocese. Ann will be available to anyone during the breaks, the workshops and at the end of the day.
Date and time
Tuesday 6th October 9:30 - 15:30
Venue
St Mary's Bridgwater, TA6 3EQ
Cost
£15 (includes lunch) Details of how to pay when you register
Register
