Chaplaincy
The Role of Chaplain in Ballincollig Community School
Anne Fleming
SCHOOL CHAPLAIN
My name is Anne Fleming, as School Chaplain my role involves being present to and walking with students, their families and the staff as they journey with us in BCS. As Chaplain in Ballincollig Community School, I am a faith presence, committed to the values of Christ and I accompany each individual in the school community on their journey.
My Role as Chaplain encompasses the following:
Availability to students throughout the school week offering them a safe haven where they can come to seek help and support a place they can feel valued, listened to and heard.
Being part of the pastoral care team working closely with the guidance department and school management to ensure that students are well cared for within the school.
Offering support in times of bereavement and loss.
Being available to all members of the school community Students, Staff and Parents.
Supporting the R.E. Department.
Facilitating Meditation/ Prayer Experiences.
Preparation of school liturgical celebrations/ prayer services at significant times of the school year such as Opening Year Prayer Services, November Remembrance, Advent/ Christmas, Lent/ Easter and Graduation.
Co-ordination of the Meitheal Youth Leadership Programme.
Maintaining close links with the local church communities.
Facilitating the provision of Retreats/ Days of Reflection.
Organising and encouraging students to get involved in local/wider community charity events.
The Chaplain’s Room
If this is not a place where tears are understood
Where do I go to cry?
If this is not a place where my spirits can take wing
Where do I go to fly?
If this is not a place where my questions can be asked
Where do I go to seek?
If this is not a place where feelings can be heard
Where do I go to speak?
If this is not a place where you will accept me as I am
Where can I go to be?
If this is not a place where I can try to learn and grow
Where can I just be me?
— William J. Crockett