On September 16th we attended a special Evensong at Peterborough Cathedral dedicated to “Celebrating Chaplaincy”. Over 20 Chaplains from across Cambs and from different settings attended with networking and refreshments afterwards.
At the service a booklet was launched on:
“Chaplaincy in Peterborough” which has been compiled and edited by Professor Paul Ballard (former trustee of CWC) using experiences of chaplains throughout Peterborough.
Light Project Peterborough, who manage the Street Chaplains in Peterborough, has coordinated the contributors and CWC have encouraged and funded the artwork, printing and design costs.
Prayer for Workplace Chaplains used at Evensong service
Loving and ever-present God,
You come to find us wherever we are,
and there is nowhere beyond your reach.
We give you thanks for chaplains, lay and ordained, paid and voluntary,
who live out your presence in workplaces and organisations
throughout this county of Cambridgeshire and all over the world.
As we celebrate and affirm the work they do,
and the difference they make to the wellbeing of people and organisations,
so bless all those currently engaged in chaplaincy
and all who are exploring if this may be the way forward for them,
through Christ our Lord. Amen.
We pray for the various workplaces across Peterborough and Cambridgeshire where chaplains currently serve,
and for those who offer chaplaincy on the streets of our towns and cities;
We ask that they may feel recognised, heard and valued
for what they contribute to their respective contexts;
coming alongside people and listening to their stories,
helping them to encounter your love for all your people.
Sustain and strengthen them in their ministry,
and at this time of economic stress, uncertainty and hardship for so many,
encourage more workplaces
to recognise the support that chaplaincy brings to their workforce.
We pray for those chaplains who are able to use their role
to speak truth to power,
to defend the vulnerable and challenge injustice;
that they may be granted your wisdom and your courage;
through Christ who is the Prince of Peace.
Amen.
Closing Hymn at Evensong celebrating Chaplaincy
Lord, you give the great commission:
‘Heal the sick and preach the word.’
Lest the Church neglect its mission,
and the gospel go unheard,
help us witness to your purpose
with renewed integrity;
with the Spirit’s gifts empower us
for the work of ministry.
Lord, you call us to your service:
‘In my name baptize and teach.’
That the world may trust your promise,
life abundant meant for each,
give us all new fervour, draw us
closer in community;
with the Spirit’s gifts empower us
for the work of ministry.
Lord, you make the common holy:
‘This my body, this my blood.’
Let us all, for earth’s true glory,
daily lift life heavenward,
asking that the world around us
share your children’s liberty;
with the Spirit’s gifts empower us
for the work of ministry.
Lord, you show us love’s true measure;
‘Father, what they do, forgive.’
Yet we hoard as private treasure
all that you so freely give.
May your care and mercy lead us
to a just society;
with the Spirit’s gifts empower us
for the work of ministry.
Lord, you bless with words assuring:
‘I am with you to the end.’
Faith and hope and love restoring,
may we serve as you intend,
and, amid the cares that claim us,
hold in mind eternity;
with the Spirit’s gifts empower us
for the work of ministry.
Words: Jeffery Rowthorn (b.1934)
Copyright © 1978 Hope Publishing
Tune: Abbots Leigh