Presence, compassion, and care: Stan joins Resthaven
Whether he is quietly listening at a bedside, walking alongside his dog Sherlock, or reflecting during an annual retreat, Chaplain Stan Kolodziej believes that presence — simply being there — can be life-changing.
Stan has recently joined Resthaven, working predominantly in the residential home at Westbourne Park. He brings with him a deeply human approach to spiritual care, grounded in openness and inclusion.
‘Many people assume that chaplaincy is only about religious services, but in hospital and aged care it is much broader,’ Stan says. ‘Chaplaincy offers emotional and spiritual support to people of all beliefs and none. It includes deep listening, advocacy, grief support, life-review, and helping people find meaning and peace as they navigate loss, change, and ageing.’
Stan joins Resthaven with around four years of experience as a chaplain across hospital and aged care settings, supporting people through illness, grief, trauma, dementia, and end-of-life care. He has provided pastoral and spiritual care at Flinders Medical Centre and other aged care providers, working across areas including oncology, hospice, mental health, intensive care, and in emergency departments.
Stan has an academic background in Philosophy and Theology, supported by two units of Clinical Pastoral Education and the completion of the Ministry Formation Program. Stan describes his journey into chaplaincy as a strong sense of vocation — a calling to walk alongside people during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.
‘Chaplaincy is not only about religion; it is also about life experience and spirituality, recognising that spirituality means different things to different people,’ Stan says. ‘For some, it is faith in God; for others, it may be reading a book, connecting with nature, or even fishing. Chaplaincy honours each person’s unique way of finding meaning. It is also not about providing answers to existential “why” questions, but about being present and acknowledging that at times in life, we do not need answers — we need understanding, companionship, and space to be.’
Beyond qualifications, Stan brings rich life experience shaped by personal challenges, including a difficult journey of migration. These experiences have fostered resilience and empathy, traits he calls on in his day-to-day interactions.
‘I believe that everyone deserves care, compassion, and respect, irrespective of their beliefs, background, sexual orientation, or any other distinction,’ Stan says. ‘I offer support without judgement and with a genuine respect for each person’s dignity and lived experience.’
Stan says he is pleased to become part of the Resthaven community.
‘Resthaven’s commitment to dignity, respect, and holistic care aligns strongly with my own values,’ Stan says. ‘I look forward to building meaningful relationships with residents, families, and staff, and contributing positively.’
Outside of work, Stan enjoys reflective reading, quiet time, and walking with Sherlock, his adopted 12-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross.
He loves spending time outdoors with his wife, who is also a chaplain in the aged care sector. Together, they attend an annual retreat with the Jesuits in Seven Hills. One of Stan’s greatest joys is time with his 22-month-old grandson, Noah.
Stan also enjoys tennis, eagerly follows the Australian Open, and hopes to one day return to riding motorbikes — a passion he enjoyed before leaving his birth country of Poland.
Welcome Stan! We look forward to the compassion, wisdom, and presence you will share with residents, families, and staff.