Market Chaplaincy

Volunteer chaplain Gavin Page writes:

‘It’s that time of year again when the Frankfurt Christmas Market returns to Birmingham City Centre. While some may say, ‘it’s too early,’ and others may think ‘it’s too expensive,’ one thing is certain: the Retail Chaplains will be present at the Market. For the seventh consecutive year, United Reformed Church minister Revd Elaine Hutchinson and her team of volunteer chaplains will visit the market stalls, security personnel and operations team to provide a listening ear, offer encouragement and spread joy, thereby embodying the hands, feet, and voice of Jesus.

The Frankfurt Market features vendors who have travelled from Romania, Germany and Poland, often spending months away from their families, friends and pets to come to Birmingham. Additionally, many stalls are owned by individuals from various parts of the United Kingdom. Some stalls are staffed by students trying to support themselves, postgraduates seeking permanent employment, holidaymakers, or individuals simply looking for work.

All the Retail Chaplains have undergone specific training for the Frankfurt Market, or have participated in training provided by ‘WorkCare West Midlands,’ which, in partnership with ‘be.friend,’ supplies chaplains to retail establishments in Birmingham City Centre.

What I love most about being a chaplain is the opportunity to be ‘Pastorally Proactive and Spiritually Reactive.’ Matthew 5:13-16 encourages us to be ‘salt and light,’ while Jeremiah 29:7 calls us ‘to seek the peace of the city.’ Serving as a chaplain allows me to put these principles into action. I enjoy asking people about their lives and understanding their situations, which gives me the chance to offer to pray for them. It is quite rare for someone to decline such an offer. This year, during just a few chaplaincy visits, I have had the opportunity to pray for someone struggling with anxiety, someone facing health challenges and another person concerned about the security of their stall and products.

The Retail Chaplains operate year-round in various locations throughout Birmingham. If you would like to know more, please get in touch with WorkCare West Midlands via teamwwm@workcarewm.org.uk or with ‘be.friend’ via chaplain@carrslane.co.uk.