Hospice Chaplain receives official licence

17 April 2024 | View all news

In a short ceremony this week, we were delighted to welcome The Bishop of Stafford, Matthew Parker; Archdeacon, Megan Smith; and guests from local parishes as well as staff and patients to attend the official licensing of David Clark as our Hospice Chaplain.

Matthew Parker, The Bishop of Stafford commented: “This gives David a proper licence to carry out his duties as Hospice Chaplain with the authority of the Bishop of Lichfield, making it legal and officially embedding it into the life of the Hospice.”

Although David has been volunteering for us for some time, the ceremony has legally endorsed this arrangement.

A formal welcome

David Fletcher, Director of Care said: “This event was confirmation of the relationship between ourselves and David, who has been supporting our staff and patients for a number of months now.

“David works on behalf of the church, providing spiritual and social guidance to anybody who may need it, relating to palliative or general pastoral care.

“We are delighted to formally welcome him as part of our team and are so thankful for the support and guidance that he’s offered to date.”

Providing hope and support

David is on hand to provide spiritual and pastoral support for patients and families, carers and staff of all backgrounds and religions.

He volunteers on site two days a week.

As Chaplain, he will offer prayers, conduct memorial services and, from time to time, officiate at funerals.

Reverend David is also Associate Priest in the Parish of Berkswich.

Asked about his role at Katharine House, David added: “I like to think I offer a bit of hope and support to all at the Hospice.

“I’ve really valued my time here for the last year and it is lovely to be officially recognised, or affirmed from the church’s point of view.”