Chaplaincy to the tourism industry:

A chaplain is a person who is: “among people, with people, for people, providing a caring listening ear” to the stories people want to share - about their work, their families, their life, maybe their worries, and even sometimes about God. It’s about being present, being available, being where we are invited, not imposing our ideas on others in any way, just showing love and care towards all.

 From Deacon Maggie Patchett,
Chaplain to those working in the tourism sector.

For the past 5 years I have been in and around Ambleside, Windermere and Bowness calling by cafes, B&Bs, hotels and other tourism outlets, generally getting to know those who work in these establishments, offering support, a listening ear and friendly conversation, and more when it has been needed and requested. I have journeyed with people through both joys and sorrows. It has not been the easiest of times for this sort of work to say the least, but I have met some amazing people, and I stand in awe of the way everyone has carried on through such challenging times. I know many places have changed hands, with new people taking over and others retiring or moving on, and now it is my turn to be doing that. Unfortunately the funding we had for this chaplaincy service is about to come to an end and I will be moving on to pastures new in August.

However, while we don’t have the capacity for a chaplain to call by in the way I have been doing, there will still be someone available to anyone who needs a chat, or a confidential conversation. There are new contact details – and the cards and leaflets have been updated with these.

Do please continue to make use of these as and when you need to.

Email:        tourismchaplain@slakesmethodist.org.uk
Mobile:      07360 921067
Landlines: for Ambleside area 015394 33205
                     for Windermere/Bowness 015394 43063

Click to open our Facebook page fullsize  ( www.facebook.com/lakeschaplain )

It has been my privilege to have served those working in the tourism sector, to have worked with you and walked alongside you. I wish you all God's blessing as you continue to provide rest and relaxation for the many visitors here in the South Lakes.

May you also find time and space for yourselves! 

From Maggie,
your Tourism Chaplain.

B&B Fellowship Group: We have a small group of Christians who run B&Bs and miss getting to church on a Sunday morning and feel the need to meet with other believers – those who come really appreciate this time together.   We meet together on a monthly basis for a time of led reflection and fellowship. The venue varies but  we share lifts.


Click here to send a message if you would like to join us, or want more information.