Tauranga Hospital
farewells popular
Chaplain
By Shelley Gilmore, Tauranga Hospital Chaplain.
This month we farewelled Tauranga Hospital
Chaplain Sam Held, after five years of service.
Sam introduced the popular annual Christmas decoration
competition which grows year on year, and he has become a
familiar face for new staff, providing the opening powhiri for new
staff at orientation each month.
A farewell function was held for Sam earlier this month. Many of
the speeches mentioned that Sam has a strong sense of social
justice and is an excellent change-maker. He has consistently
ensured that the outcomes for colleagues and staff have been
negotiated fairly and ethically.
On a lighter note, it was also revealed that Sam was the first
chaplain we have had, who arrived at work in leathers on a
motorbike – and who had to humbly tell us on one occasion that
he might have had an issue with going fast on that bike!
Sam excells at relating to people of all cultures and faith and
adopting what approaches work best to bring them to a place of
spiritual peace. He embraces diversity and inclusiveness, and has
been an enthusiastic learner of Te Reo Māori and kaupapa Māori.
The chaplaincy team has flourished with Sam. This is a close and
collegial team of chaplains and volunteers with strong links to each
Sam and Shelley
other and a sense of common purpose and understanding of the
role that they serve within the hospital setting. Sam leaves this
team and service in good heart and spirit to move forward in his
own journey.
We are delighted for him in his new position as Rector to the
Upper Eden Parishes, in Cumbria, England. Sam, your role here
has been valued and your ministry has grown to the point that it is
now time for you to leave – this is a time of new direction and new
beginnings, take with you our gratitude and appreciation for what
you have contributed to this place. We wish you all the best for
your new position. Leave this place with peace in your heart - the
Parish in Cumbria are receiving a special gift in you. God bless
you and empower you for your journey!
The Tauranga Hospital team of
Chaplains and volunteers.
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