The Revd Dawn Stokes has become the first ordained Anna Chaplain in the Diocese of Peterborough, marking an important milestone in the Diocese’s growing ministry with older people.
The Revd Dawn Stokes has become the first ordained Anna Chaplain in the Diocese of Peterborough, marking an important milestone in the Diocese’s growing ministry with older people.
On Sunday 31 May, the Revd Dawn Stokes, Rector of Holy Cross Church in Daventry, was commissioned as an Anna Chaplain during a special service at Holy Cross led by Bishop Andrew Proud.
Bishop Andrew was joined by Liz Kelly, the Diocese’s Anna Chaplaincy Co-ordinator and local trainer, who introduced the ministry and its mission to offer spiritual care, friendship and support to older people, whatever their faith background. Anna Chaplaincy seeks to ensure that older people feel valued, listened to and connected, particularly at times when they may face loneliness, loss or changing circumstances.
Dawn was commissioned after completing the six-week Anna Chaplaincy training programme, which equips chaplains to support older people in a variety of settings. The course combines practical guidance, resources and opportunities to learn from others involved in this growing ministry.
Speaking during the service, Dawn reflected on the importance of reaching out to older people, including those for whom attending church is no longer possible. She described Anna Chaplaincy as a “vital ministry” and expressed her enthusiasm about joining the growing network of chaplains serving communities across the Diocese.
There are now sixteen Anna Chaplains serving across the Diocese of Peterborough, with more training each year. Many are Licensed Lay Ministers who feel called to support older people, but the ministry is open to anyone with a heart for this work and the encouragement of their local church.
Dawn’s commissioning is another encouraging step in the Diocese’s commitment to supporting older people and helping churches respond to the needs of an ageing population. Through Anna Chaplaincy, older people are offered care and companionship ensuring they remain connected and valued within their communities.
The Revd Becca Rogers has been licensed as Chaplain to HMP Peterborough, bringing her passion for chaplaincy and her heart for supporting those on the margins to a vital ministry within the Diocese.
