Anna Chaplain

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Anna Chaplaincy in the Parish of Wootton

The Need for the Role
Bishop Jonathan outlined a vision to see an Anna Chaplain in every parish in the diocese. The following explains the role, Anna Chaplaincy is named after the widow, Anna, who appears with Simeon in Luke’s gospel; both are good role models of faithful older people. It is a person-centred ministry of spiritual care for older people of all faiths, cultures, spiritualities and contexts, and for their families and carers. The Anna Chaplain also offers advocacy for older people within church and community, they work with people living independently and within residential and nursing homes. The work of the Chaplain is defined by the wants and needs of their individual parish and is adapted accordingly.
Hilary Baldwin – Anna Chaplain of the Parish St Edmund’s and St Mark’s

Hilary Baldwin - Anna Chaplain

Hilary Baldwin – Anna Chaplain

Hillary’s Profile
I moved to the Island 32 years ago and have lived in Wootton for the last 18 years. I am a retired Police Officer and worked in the hospitality industry for several years. On early retirement I volunteered at the Salvation Army hostels and was a volunteer member of Independent Monitoring Board of HMP Isle of Wight for three years. Following the passing of my husband Mick, I trained as a Bereavement Counsellor and I  use that training at the Mountbatten Hospice, I also hold qualifications in Equality and Diversity and Safeguarding. I am member of the PCC at St Mark’s church and a Lay Worship Leader. I belong to several social/ choral groups and devote time to the care of the members welfare.  When I first read about the Anna Chaplaincy ministry, I immediately felt that the role was one close to my heart. I believe that a large section of our community is sadly neglected which was highlighted by the Covid Pandemic, getting older, living alone, becoming frail, and losing life partners are all reasons why many of our older generation are no longer engaging with the community and life in general, and lifelong Christians no longer feel able to attend services. I believe it is important that everything the Church and society in general has to offer is accessible and appropriate to their needs. I hope that in the future the Anna Chaplain Ministry will help to readdress the balance.