Chaplaincy Making a Difference in Manukau 

In September last year, the Manukau Community Ministries team expanded to include three chaplains. ‘We have more than 200 people come through our doors seeking food assistance every week,’ explains Grace Chan, centre manager at Manukau Community Ministries. ‘Many book appointments online, but we also have a large number of families that walk in. With so many clients waiting in our reception area, we wondered how we could support and build relationships while they waited, and that’s how the idea for our volunteer chaplaincy team was born.’ 

The new team consists of a retired pastor, a retired chaplain and a soldier from Manukau Central Corps. Together, they bring extensive experience in journeying alongside others, offering encouragement and supportive spiritual conversations. 

During their busiest times on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday mornings one or more chaplains are present in the reception area providing opportunities for people to open up, to be heard, to receive prayer and explore faith. ‘Many of our families come from challenging backgrounds and chaplaincy allows us to come quietly alongside them,’ Grace shares. 

Five months in, the benefits are already evident. ‘We’re seeing people return and form ongoing relationships with our chaplaincy team,’ says Grace. This service has become so popular that the team is now implementing a booking system for those who want prayer and conversation in a more private space.  

The chaplains themselves say they deeply enjoy their volunteer roles and value the opportunity to support their community. It’s clear this new ministry is making a significant difference at Manukau Community Ministries—for clients and chaplains alike.