Gracious Connections

It remains a privilege to serve marginalised people in my Chaplaincy and Case Management work with St John’s Care. Continuous client care’s value is remembered when I re-connect with people I have previously supported.

Recently a client, who for privacy purposes I will call M, came into St John’s Care for emergency food relief.
As I listened to this grandfather’s story with empathy and compassion, I learned that this household would also benefit from bill support and clothes for the growing children in his care.
As I began to note the children’s names on the clothing referral form, I realised that I had provided Chaplaincy support for them in a previous role.

Yet, this was the first time I had the opportunity to speak with their kinship Guardian. As it had been a while since I had connected with his grandchildren, I shared my positive remembrance of them with their grandfather because my time working with them was a gift. He was grateful for this gracious connection.

As the conversation continued, this kind-hearted and softly spoken gentleman spoke about finding hope in the healing and freedom he has found in relationship with God, despite the family’s past experiences of domestic violence. Thankfully, they are safe now from harm. However, the financial challenges that result from courageously leaving such a situation are ongoing and complex for M’s family.

I was positively struck by the forgiveness M showed towards people who had hurt his loved ones and encouraged to see the peace he experienced from releasing the pain and debt of wrongdoing. This is not something that is easy to do. I admire M’s resilience and strength amidst it all.

Like many families, M’s need for support is ongoing at time. Thanks to the support of generous donors, St John’s Care has been able to provide food and other practical supplies for this family as needs arise. Our charity has also been able to apply for energy bill credits successfully on the family’s behalf.

I am grateful for this unexpected reconnection with M’s family and trust that his grandfatherly love and personal sacrifice will continue to overcome life’s challenges in safety with grace and mercy.
Thank you,

Tecia Thompson
Community Chaplain