There is now a fourth Anna Chaplain for the Peterborough Diocese. Ministry Lead, Debbie Ducille was there at Candlemas, on Sunday February 2, to join the throng at Sandra Francis' commissioning.
'I was so pleased to attend Sandra’s commissioning at St Peter’s and St Pauls’ Abington in Northamptonshire – known as the Church in the Park – and what a lovely spot it is!'
Sandra explains how her journey so far has unfolded:
'My Commissioning took place during an amazing service on February 2nd. I worked with World Vision in IT for 24 years, commuting to London and Milton Keynes. During my time at World Vision, I led devotional groups bringing people together, sharing life experiences and building lifelong friendships around the world.
I stopped work to care for my late husband who suffered with Parkinson’s and dementia and, alongside work, I have always cared for all my family. As I cared for my late husband, I noticed a significant gap in society. Sadly, it became apparent that one of biggest diseases in the U.K. is loneliness. I am looking forward to exploring different ways of engaging with individuals, their families, and the wider community.
After his death, I joined the church of St Peter & St Paul, Abington, also known as the ‘Church in the Park’ in January 2023 and found it to be a community of inclusiveness. It could be described as a ‘Community of Blessings’ for every nation, every people, every language, and every age... where everyone is cared for and encouraged to seek their purpose and use their God given talents.
My prayer before answering the calling of Jesus was triggered by the Bible verse Matthew 4: 19, in which Jesus said, ‘Come follow me. I will make you fish for people.’'
'Alongside my role as an Anna Chaplain, I am currently training to be a Spiritual Director which will enhance my work as a listener within Anna Chaplaincy. I look forward to hearing the rich stories and seeing photographs of people’s lives. The older generation have achieved many great things, but they often don’t get a chance to share or recall memories with a friendly visitor who isn’t a family member.'
I currently support Liz Kelly at Abington Park View Care Home, which is for people living with dementia, with Messy Vintage and Songs of Praise services. As well as the residents, some relatives, friends, and staff members always attend which is really encouraging.
The sacrament is very precious to me, and I feel privileged to have received a Celtic Pyx, a gift from my Church, to use when I’m taking home communion out into the community. I’m looking forward to supporting the elderly and their wider families. Listening and praying, the Lord says, ‘Who will hold my people in their heart’?
I’m also looking forward to meeting other Anna Chaplains in the future and being able to share experiences with them.
This verse was included in my commissioning service:
May her hands be ready to do your work.
May her eyes be open to recognize those in need.
May her ears hear soft-spoken words of pain and sorrow.
May her voice speak of healing and peace.
May her feet walk the extra mile with those who falter, and may she always be aware of your presence guiding her and your loving protection around her in all that she does.
These words are spoken every day as my prayer.
Comments