A ‘ministry of presence’ for Chaplain, Nina

Dr Nina Corlett-McDonald, one of Resthaven Leabrook’s Coordinating Chaplains, describes working together with older people ‘as a privilege.’

Before coming to Resthaven, Nina worked in ‘a more administrative role,’ but, she says, ‘I wanted to be with people again; I really did feel a pull.’

‘It is such a privilege to be invited into someone’s space; it’s a ministry of presence.’

She also describes that she’s not ‘not here to be a Chaplain if they don’t need me to – I’m also here as a friendly face.’

‘I will be with people wherever they find themselves – be it in grief or celebration, or just having a flat day.’

‘Often, it’s mutual – people want to know who you are, too.’

‘At Resthaven, the warm welcome has been exceptional, staff have embraced me.’

‘It’s nice to know that I can walk into a place, and there’s that trust by the staff, that they will support me.’

‘My experience at Resthaven has been very much around Resthaven’s values of respecting the dignity of all people – and this aligns with my own values.’

‘It’s a partnership, to ensure that dignity is maintained at all times.’

‘What a privilege it is to be with people just when they need someone.’

‘I just love being here at Resthaven.’

Nina works with Coordinating Chaplain, Rev Cate Baker, who is another of Resthaven’s chaplaincy team.

Every Resthaven residential aged care home has a chaplain’s support.

Celebrating 85 years in 2020, Resthaven Incorporated is a not for profit, South Australian aged care community service associated with the Uniting Church. Resthaven’s residential and in-home care and support options are offered throughout metropolitan Adelaide, the Adelaide Hills, Murraylands, Riverland, Barossa, Fleurieu Peninsula and the Limestone Coast.