Ryde Redevelopment Chapel Decommissioning Service
This month saw the decommissioning of the Ryde Hospital Chapel. The chapel was built in 1988 and has been a part of the spiritual care at Ryde Hospital for the past 37 years. The service held on Monday 10 February, was led by Christopher Isika and Janine Steele, celebrated the space that has provided a sanctuary of peace, comfort and celebrations over that time. The service was attended by NSLHD Chief Executive, Anthony Schembri, members of the Board including the Chair Trevor Danos and the Deputy Chair Mary Chiarello, NSW Ambulance, along with staff, past and present. During the service the past Reverend of the chapel, Rev. Robert Aiken reflected on memories, and spiritual moments. The important roles of the Chaplaincy Committee and the Pink Ladies in the chapel’s history were noted and praised. Rev Jean Bell lead the congregation in prayer for symbolically farewelling the chapel with the closing of the curtains behind the alter and the removal of spiritual items to be used in the multifaith rooms during and after the redevelopment is completed. In attendance was Christina Padovan, a long-time member of staff who was born at Ryde and married her late husband in the chapel in 1973. Heather Gough closed with expressions of gratitude for the Chapel space, and acknowledging all those who have contributed to the Chapel’s journey, and the importance of ongoing spiritual care at Ryde. Thanks, in particular went to; Christopher Isika, Libby Price, Liz Wheels, Janine Steel, Jean Bell, Rev. Robert Aiken, Rev. Fr. Pawel Kopczynski, and the Pink Ladies. The service was followed by an afternoon tea and celebratory cake (see gallery for more photos).
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