Jenan Taylor
26 June 2023
A Melbourne hospital chaplain has received recognition for her outstanding individual contribution as a spiritual carer.
But she said it was a bittersweet achievement because of uncertainty about the future.
Hospital chaplain the Reverend Melanie Moore received the Best of Care award at the recent Spiritual Care Australia awards.
Ms Moore said it was a wonderful validation of spiritual care work, but the honour was bittersweet because of the Melbourne diocese’s decision to cease funding the health chaplaincy program.
She is among nine healthcare chaplains whose futures are hazy because of the cuts which take effect at the end of 2023.
Ms Moore said with just a few months left in her role, winning the award had left her wondering at what God’s plan was.
Read more: Hospital chaplains undervalued despite COVID burden
A pastoral carer at the Northern Hospital in Epping for 17 years, Ms Moore said the feedback she received about her win from staff including medical, allied health and social work employees, was unexpected and especially encouraging.
“It’s wonderful to hear how they see my role, that it is my heart beat to be out in the critical care space where I can offer Jesus’ love, care and compassion when people are at their most vulnerable and at the end of life,” she said.
Northern Hospital chaplaincy coordinator Natalia Dewiyani said Ms Moore was especially known for her excellent work with palliative care patients, but was a positive presence in which ever ward she was needed.
“She gives it her all, and we have been very lucky to have her knowledge and wisdom,” Ms Dewiyani said.
Read more: Hospital chaplain’s care ministry in pandemic
The Royal Melbourne Hospital chaplaincy team, of which the Reverend Dawn Treloar is a member, won the national Spiritual Care Australia Best of Care team award.
Ms Treloar said it was a pleasing recognition for the Royal Melbourne Hospital spiritual care team.
For more faith news, follow The Melbourne Anglican on Facebook, Twitter, or subscribe to our weekly emails.
