Businesses
It is often said that the most important asset a business has are its people
Where staff are motivated and focused on a task, it will make a real difference to performance and profit
Unfortunately, as we all know, people are not always totally motivated, and the focus can sometimes be lost. It is all a result of the ups and downs of being human.
We may be able to leave behind concerns about home and health, family and finance for a while, concentrating on our work, but eventually they catch up with us. Work itself can bring pressure and uncertainty, and when it does, colleagues, however supportive, may have little time to help.
Years ago people were more attached to their church or faith community, and there were opportunities to talk about problems and concerns. This is less and less the case now and many people regret it. Religiously committed or not, they miss the stability and support which their background and faith tradition offered. They miss someone to talk to.
That is where chaplains come in
They have been present, representing various faith communities, in hospitals, prisons and the armed forces for many years. Indeed, the community recognises the value of their presence in those places where people are under particular pressure, and chaplaincy is a legal requirement in each of them. Chaplains come into workplaces, in industry, commerce and the emergency services, as guests, but with the same purpose. They are people who know what it is to be alongside others at the turning points of life, and of course they are not immune from problems themselves. In the United States, workplace chaplaincy has been rated the most valuable benefit a company can provide for its employees.
Of course, chaplains are not just there for life’s difficulties
A good chaplain will contribute to a positive atmosphere, encouraging people, affirming their value to the organisation and, as we believe, to God. He or she will be able to link people with places of worship for weddings and other celebrations. We are also helping to set up “Job Clubs” to help people with the search for work.
Chaplains are provided by the Christian churches because it is important for us to maintain contacts with the economic life of society. No one would want churches and faith communities which were exclusively concerned with their own life and affairs.
An Archbishop once said that the church existed for the benefit of those who were not members and we want to continue that. Experience has shown that our chaplains are accepted and welcomed by people of different faiths and those who have no particular commitment.
Most chaplaincy is provided without any charge to the organisations we visit. We are always interested in discussing new opportunities. You can contact me, the Team Leader, at enquiries@bcuim.co.uk or 01902 710407.
