Chaplaincy
Worship
The primary worship service happens on a Monday afternoon. In addition, there are House Services, Boarders’ Chapel Services, special services (Easter, ANZAC, Christmas Carols, Leavers’ Services, Founders’ Day, etc), Wednesday morning Eucharist and so on.
You are all welcome to attend (and/or watch the recordings as they become available).
Weekly Schedule:
- Monday
Chapel 1.50pm
- Wednesday Morning
Eucharist (Lady Chapel, 7.45am)
- Thursday Lunchtime
Prayers for Peace (Lady Chapel)
Chaplaincy in Context
When Bishop Cherrington opened WDSG in 1928, he envisaged the school as a place of “ripe scholarship, never ceasing prayer, the courage that comes from sincere conviction, undaunted hope and undying faith.” In 1983 the integration agreement added: “The school aims at the development of the whole person, culturally, spiritually, physically … by the inculcation of Christian values and discipline.” Over the past 90 years, ordained Anglican chaplains (and their bishops) have played an important role in trying to achieve these aspirations. This has often been expressed through worship, pastoral care, and religious instruction.
Chaplaincy - finding meaning and making a difference
At the heart of such a community is relationships. These develop when we share our lives and participate in one another’s success and failure, grief and joy. In this shared life, we seek meaning and try to make a difference.
Our meaning is built on our creation in the image of God. This theological bottom line reminds us that every single human has intrinsic value and is unconditionally loved by God. This drives the desire to make a difference – to help usher in the Kingdom of God. Practically speaking, that could mean anything from discussing the merits of choux pastry over salted caramel brownie to processing the loss of a loved one. It is all a privilege.
Yes, but what does a Chaplain do?
Pastoral Care
The word ‘chaplain’ references the cloak of St Martin who was a soldier in the Roman army stationed in Gaul (4thC). On his way to Amiens one day – and in the middle of winter – he encountered a freezing beggar. Martin was so moved with compassion that he cut his cloak in half and gave it to the man. That night he dreamed that the beggar was Jesus. The gift of the cloak (capella → chaplain) reminds us of Jesus’ words, “I was naked and you clothed me” (Mt 25.36). A chaplain, then, is someone who offers compassion and shelter to those in need. This is the foundation of pastoral care.
Nowadays, we talk about spiritual, social and emotional support. Although they are related, pastoral care differs from counselling and therapy and is still completely confidential. It offers a space for questions; for hearing yourself think aloud; for testing ideas; for grieving, and for celebrating.
Nga Pononga Service Portal
Nga Pononga are servants who embrace the opportunity to give their time to others. They willingly commit to causes they believe in and help to make a difference in the lives of those in need. This reflects our special character as an Anglican School and enables us to live out the example of Jesus, who came among us as one who serves.
In this portal, you will find opportunities to serve and a way to record the efforts that will see you recognised for your mahi.
Kia Kaha. Kia Maia. Kia Pukumahi.
Be Strong. Be Ready. Be Diligent.
