Q and A with Massey Chaplins

By Leila Lois (she/her)

What we do & what services we offer:

Chaplains provide relaxed spaces to connect and provide a listening ear that’s independent of (but supported by) the University. This takes different forms across the three campuses, but usually includes coffee, tea, free breakfasts, quiet areas, and support to have relaxing times and find community. We also run simple chapel services which are open to anyone, whether they see themselves as having faith, or being ‘religious’ or not.

We’re not counsellors but can link you with the full range of specific services when needed. Above all, we’re here to support students growing in their well-being in whatever ways are uniquely relevant for them while studying.

We think Te Whare Tapa Whā provides a wonderful approach to enhancing well-being; taha tinana, physical health; taha whānau, family or social health; taha hinengaro, mental health; and taha wairua, spiritual health.

Chaplains are people of faith, so we have a particular interest in taha wairua; the big questions like who am I? What’s my purpose? Is there a God/s? and so on.

What is your advice for staying happy and healthy while studying?

Each of us does our ‘being human’ in a unique and dynamic way, so being aware of all the dimensions of Te Whare Tapa Whā and attending to any that may out of balance is a helpful place to start, and to continue flourishing! We’re keen to offer caring and connection to support you as you’re navigating through your university study and life.

Challenges?

Campus chaplains recognise that the Covid pandemic has reduced in-person connections, which many of us had got used to not having so much of over the last three years. That’s taken a toll on mental health, particularly for young people, and there’s also increased financial stresses. We don’t have magic fixes for these, but so far in 2023 it’s been great to see more people and energy on campus! Plus, we’re open to hearing ideas students or staff may have to enhance student (and staff) well-being in any way.

Chaplaincy service on Auckland campus

Discover social events, worship services, language classes and more.

Location: Massey Business School building, level 1

Email: chaplain.auckland@massey.ac.nz

Phone: +64 9 213 6449

Instagram: @lui_thedog

Facebook: Spiritual Wellbeing Auckland

Chaplaincy service on Manawatū campus

Regular events are held at Te Waiora, including our famous pancake night on Wednesdays.

Location: The Centre – Te Waiora

Email: chaplain.manawatu@massey.ac.nz

Phone: +64 6 951 7730

Facebook: Spiritual Wellbeing Manawatu

Chaplaincy service on Wellington campus

Find us at Wellbeing Space (next to the Pyramid) on Wednesdays. Free breakfast and Chapel at noon.

Location: Student Services Trust building, block 9, level 2 (above Tussock)

Email: chaplain.wellington@massey.ac.nz

Phone: +64 4 979 3375

Facebook: Spiritual Wellbeing Wellington

Instagram: @masseychaplaincywellington