Ann Tiplady has been commissioned as an Anna Chaplain to our diocese, serving in the benefice of Bethersden, with High Halden and Woodchurch.
Anna Chaplaincy is a ministry offering person-centred spiritual care for older people.
Ann had recently completed the online Anna Chaplaincy course and looks forward to a new ministry alongside older people in the benefice.
A background as a social worker with children, and more recently, as a diocesan safeguarding trainer, has equipped Ann for her new ministry.
Ann hopes to fill the gap in friendship and support for those living with dementia, and their carers, offering them the chance to gather regularly.
Reflecting on the service Ann said: “About 18 months ago, I had the calling that I could not ignore. I gave up other roles in the church to train as an Anna Chaplain.
“I will now spend the rest of my life in the service of those older people who need support, kindness and love. I know that with God’s help I can make a difference.”
Ann’s rector, Revd Sue Rose said after the commissioning: “It has been wonderful to see how Ann has followed God’s call to train as an Anna Chaplain. She has a wealth of experience in pastoral ministry and lay leadership in the church and has great gifts to bring to this new ministry in our benefice.”
The comissioning took place on Sunday 10 December 2023.
To find out more about becoming an Anna Chaplain, visit our Anna Chaplaincy webpage. You can read about previous Anna Chaplains commissioned in our diocese on the national blog.
[Pictured: Left - Ann Tiplady, Anna Chaplain / Right - Revd Sue Rose]