Quality Time at Westbourne Park’s Men’s Group
Every Friday at Resthaven Westbourne Park, a group of men gather with Resthaven Coordinating Chaplain, Rev Kingsley Congdon, for a casual get-together known as ‘Men’s Group’.
The group of around ten enjoy discussing a variety of interesting topics, catching up on the latest news and just being together in each other’s company over morning tea (sometimes including pizza).
Kingsley, who also coordinates chaplaincy services at Resthaven Craigmore, describes himself as both ‘facilitator’ and ‘waiter’ at these informal gatherings.
‘I arrange the guest speakers, encourage the men, facilitate the conversation,’ he says.
‘The aim of this group is not pastoral support, but fellowship—connecting with each other.’
‘If that crosses paths with spiritual guidance, and it sometimes does, well, I can cover that, too.’
The men regularly enjoy visits from special guest speakers, including Magistrate Kym Boxall, who explained the history and practise of law, and Geoff Paige, a Maintenance Person at Resthaven Mitcham, who related his experience of working in the Antarctic.
Resthaven CEO, Richard Hearn, also visited the group, relating his own personal story and experiences throughout his 30 year career with Resthaven.
Regular group member, Richard Henschke, thoroughly enjoys the ‘Men’s Group’ sessions, saying, ‘The group is a great chance to interact, and recall memories.’
‘Everyone has the opportunity to speak and participate on interesting discussions and topics.’
‘It’s so important to the men to have this ‘men only’ space in the predominantly female-based environment of residential aged care,’ Kingsley says.
‘I am really proud and pleased to be part of this group.’
‘It’s all about fellowship, fun, and a nice cup of tea.’
Find out more about Resthaven Westbourne Park here.
Pictured: Resthaven Coordinating Chaplain, Rev Kingsley Congdon, and Wesbourne Park residents John Burton, Rex Quirk, Richard Henschke and Jack Strapps.