HospitalChaplaincy

Barry has recently been appointed as Chief Executive of the Interchurch Council for Hospital Chaplaincy (ICHC). This organisation has been in existence since the 70’s and provides hospitals with chaplains who offer quality holistic spiritual and pastoral care that improves the wellbeing of the patients, whanau and staff in public hospitals.

Chaplaincy meets people when they are most vulnerable, scared, anxious about the future or just needing someone to talk to. Chaplains journey with, listen to, and advocate for patients and/or their whanau or hospital staff.

Barry says he has over 80 Chaplains, covering 40 hospitals across the motu. One of the great features of our National Church is its commitment to Chaplaincy. Not only are there Hospital Chaplains, but Chaplains in rest homes and the media to name a few.

Barry has been a council member for the National Church for several years. In addition to this experience, he is able to support ICHC with more than 40 years ’ experience in the public service and with his current role as a Director in a local Christian Medical Practice.

‘The work is rewarding and underpinned by scripture, Matthew 25:36 says, “I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you visited me. " It is a great privilege to provide leadership to this important Ministry.' www.ichc.org.nz

Funds to run the organisation are provided by individual donations, denomination contributions, local fundraising, and Te Whatu Ora contracts. The National Church has a member on the Board.

Like all organisations Barry says funds are tight. Should a local church or an individual feel called to donate to this important work, he would be most grateful.

Your prayers for our Chaplains and the work we do would be most welcome.

You can contact Barry at info@ichc.org.nz or donate through the ICHC website.