Rotorua Commissioning Service
July 2026
Last month, Rotorua Hospital hosted an official commissioning service for Hospital Chaplaincy Aotearoa's newest Chaplain and Volunteer Chaplaincy Assistants.
The Service
On 30th July, a touching powhiri and commissioning service was held to welcome the latest members of the Rotorua Chaplaincy team. The service was led by Rev. Matiu Best, Regional Manager for Hospital Chaplaincy Aotearoa, with support from Paul Leighton, Chaplain at Rotorua Hospital.
The service was made particularly special due to the appointment of the new hospital Chaplain, Susan Gedye.
Through a collection of prayers, scripture readings, and hymns, Susan was welcomed into her new role. The five new Volunteer Chaplaincy Assistants were then also welcomed and received in the same way.
Qualifying as a Volunteer Chaplaincy Assistant is a significant achievement, that can only be celebrated once each individual has completed the full ten-week classroom-based course and their ward practicum.
| Congratulations to each new member!
Comfort During Difficult Times
For many, hospital stays are unfamiliar and anxiety inducing experience, during which time you may find yourself separated from the familiarity of home and the comfort of loved ones.
The people our team encounter are often facing illness, uncertainty, or hard decisions that leave them overwhelmed and in need of warmth and guidance.
| "Our Chaplaincy team provides compassionate care, a listening ear, and a reassuring presence during difficult times."
We are incredibly grateful to all our volunteers and staff that dedicate their time to walking alongside patients, whanau, and hospital staff to offer their support.
With the addition of new Chaplain, Susan Gedye, and the latest Volunteer Chaplaincy Assistants, the team at Rotorua Hospital will be able to offer care to even more individuals and families during their hour of need.
Want to get involved?
Find out more about our open roles and training programs:
