Chaplaincy and Spirituality at Barrington Lodge Aged Care Centre

“My role as Chaplain enables me to be an unhurried presence, to be able to stop and focus on the person in front of me, for however long is necessary in that moment,” tells Barrington Lodge Aged Care Centre (“Barrington Lodge”) Chaplain, Jackie Williams. Jackie first joined The Salvation Army Aged Care in 2021 as an Enrolled Nurse and has completed a Chaplaincy diploma. As of 2024, Jackie has been the Centre’s Chaplain for over two years. 

Jackie was initially inspired to become a Chaplain to connect with residents on a deeper level. “I found I wanted to hear their stories; be that person that could sit with them and listen and provide a place where they can offload," says Jackie. “I think that was the big thing; that I just wanted to be that person to have a cup of tea with and listen.” 

The role of a Chaplain is to provide spiritual and emotional support to residents, staff and families and to bring hope in difficult times. Indeed, with this responsibility, also comes leadership. When reflecting on what leadership means to her, Jackie says: “In a word, balance, to be firm but kind; to have healthy boundaries but be approachable,” she explains. “To listen well; hear others and measure my words. It also means to know my limitations and be willing to learn from others. Lead by example, be willing to do what I expect others to do. Be flexible with self and others and learn from mistakes. Most importantly, knowing that I am always under the watchful gaze of God keeps me accountable.”  

In her role, Jackie enjoys building relationships of trust. “Without trust, one can’t minister or support effectively, so that is important,” she states. “I also enjoy researching, preparing, and presenting Chapel services. I am learning and growing in the process and that in turn informs my life journey and ministry.”  

Equally as impacting as her work with residents, is the ministry on Jackie’s own life. “Working in Aged Care provides me with unique opportunities for personal growth and development. Probably the most rewarding aspect of working as a Chaplain in the Aged Care industry is being able to have conversations exploring issues of faith and belief; being allowed into that sacred space by anyone is a privilege.” 

Beyond this, Jackie, notes that the residents become like an extended family; people whom she cares deeply for. “I love working with the elderly. It’s just an extension of people that I care deeply for. I learn from them every day and hearing their stories is a great privilege.” 

For those considering work in the aged care sector, Jackie says that being a Chaplain in this space can be challenging but has been immensely rewarding. “I am thankful for my trusted colleagues, mentors, and friends that can guide, support, and hold me accountable and to whom I can be a trusted friend.”