Anna Chaplains gather for a day of prayer and reflection

Anna Chaplains offer spiritual care and companionship to older people in churches, homes and care settings, and for their families and carers. Named after the widow Anna, who appears alongside…

November 3, 2026 November 3, 2026

Anna Chaplains offer spiritual care and companionship to older people in churches, homes and care settings, and for their families and carers. Named after the widow Anna, who appears alongside Simeon in Luke’s Gospel, the ministry draws on their examples of faithfulness in later life.

Bringing together Christians from different denominations, Anna Chaplaincy is a person-centred ministry of accompanying older people of all faiths, cultures, spiritualities and contexts, helping them know they are valued, remembered and loved by God.

On 9 October, Anna Chaplains from across the Diocese gathered at the Bishop’s Palace for a Quiet Day, an opportunity to step back from the busyness of ministry, spend time in God’s presence and encourage one another in their shared calling.

Led by Liz Kelly, Anna Chaplain Lead for the Diocese, the day explored the theme ‘God Cares for Us’ through worship, reflection and creativity, with Scripture readings including Psalm 71 and Isaiah 49:13–16.

Bishop Debbie joined the chaplains and shared a reflection, inviting them to rest in the assurance of God’s faithful love and care.

Alongside prayer and personal reflection, hot drinks, soup and lunch offered time to share experiences, encourage one another and enjoy conversation and laughter.

That fellowship is particularly valuable for a ministry rooted in being alongside others. Through listening, prayer and companionship, Anna Chaplains affirm that growing older does not diminish a person’s place in the Church or their value in God’s sight.

We are deeply grateful for the compassion, time and faithfulness of our Anna Chaplains and for the hope and presence of Christ they share with older people and those who care for them.

We would love to see Anna Chaplaincy grow across the Diocese. If you have a heart for older people, we encourage you to explore what this ministry could look like in your parish, benefice or local community. It could begin with a conversation, taking time to listen or helping someone know they are never forgotten by God.