MHC introduces new non-denominational Christian chaplain
 Lisa Waites is a the new chaplain at Medicine Hat College.--NEWS PHOTO EMMA BENNETT |
prevell@medicinehatnews.com
Twitter: MHNprevell
With a warm and welcoming smile, Lisa Waites is ready to help Medicine Hat College students and staff as she steps into her role as the new non-denominational Christian chaplain.
"Serving the students is my favourite thing," said Waites, who was hired by the Medicine Hat College Ecumenical Chaplaincy Association to provide non-denominational Christian chaplaincy service to staff and students starting this January.
Being the "practical, hands and feet of Christ," is how Waites described her chaplaincy role, and building a Ministry of hospitality. For example, one day this week the association board and herself will be serving up a free soup-and-bread lunch to connect with those on campus.
Those on campus can drop by the Interfaith Centre (Room 155) to talk with her confidentially – not just about spiritual matters but school, relationships and more. Her role is also about connecting students with community resources, such as mental health services or the food bank, she said, and providing support to international students.
Building bridges between students and local congregations is also a goal, she said.
"Students do get spiritual homesickness, like homesickness," she explained. So she helps connect students with congregations within the greater community.
The chaplaincy is student driven, said Waites, and responsive to what students want and need.
And while she comes from a Christian perspective, Waites said all are welcome to drop by and talk with her.
"A good number of students I work with don't identify as Christian," said Waites. "Students of any faith background, or no faith background are welcome."
Waites was raised and theologically trained by the United Church, and is known in the community here through her supply preaching and as a Christian recording musical artist. Waites has also been amongst the several chaplains volunteering their time up until now through the Chaplaincy Association at the college.
The association – which has representatives from the United Church of Canada, the Lutheran Church, the Presbyterian Church, Roman Catholic Church and the Anglican Church – had identified the need to bring on board a part-time chaplain to serve the college on an ongoing basis.
A big part of what made the new position possible was funds from the sale of the Grace Lutheran Church after closing its doors.
"It's beautiful, it feels to me like something positive has risen out of the ashes," said Waites.
No comments:
Post a Comment