Each year on Chaplaincy Sunday (16 May), an appeal is held as an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for the important work carried out by Catholic chaplains across Victoria.
Chaplaincy services are provided by CatholicCare Victoria and supports thousands of Victorians every year in hospitals, prisons and youth justice centres, and those living with HIV/AIDS.
Chaplains faithfully meet the emotional and spiritual needs of the isolated and marginalised in our community by providing pastoral and spiritual support through all stages of life. By providing a listening ear and a compassionate presence, chaplains assist people in coping with emotional pain and loneliness. Having someone to walk with the vulnerable, shoulder-to-shoulder, along their journey can help them to feel cared for, to feel empowered, and to find hope.
‘Being a youth justice chaplain gives me the privilege of journeying with some of the most vulnerable young people in Victoria through their time in custody,’ says Melanie Edwards MGL, Youth Justice Chaplain.
‘My role of spiritual and pastoral care sees me engaging with them both one-to-one and in groups through conversations, prayer and presence on their units and in the programs, they attend in order to provide support and encouragement, and to share hope.’
How to support the Chaplaincy Appeal
Your gift to this year’s Chaplaincy Appeal will ensure chaplains continue to bring hope to more Victorians and be messengers of God’s mercy, love and compassion. Donation envelopes have been provided to all parishes and donations can be made online or by calling (03) 9287 5513.
