Chaplain's Corner

Hi Everyone!  

Over the last few weeks, I have been writing about CHANGE and making DECISIONS.  I have been grappling with a major decision.

After leaving another Chaplaincy position after six years, I began the privileged position of serving the ACPS community in July 2019 as School Chaplain!

What a privilege and a joy it has been! That is why it has taken me many, many months to reach this decision – I have decided to leave Anderson Creek PS at end of this year.

Thank you so much for allowing me to care for your precious children.  I can honestly say I have loved every moment with them whether it was classroom activities, groups or one on one. Thank you also for allowing me to journey with you through some of the difficult and some of the saddest times in your lives.

In March 2021 I also became the School Chaplain for my local primary school which is a high need school with many disadvantaged families.  Also living in this community means I am able to bring in community contacts to enhance my work there. I will be continuing to serve in my local primary school in 2023.

For logistical reasons and the growing needs in both schools I believe that each school would benefit best from a Chaplain who can concentrate on one community.  I trust that a new Chaplain will continue this privileged work at ACPS, bringing their own skill set and continue to love and care for you all.

As I begin closure with the students I work closely with, I will to focus on the positive memories: the fun, achievements, and happy memories of our time together. I want these precious children to recall happy memories to overcome the sadness that often comes with saying goodbye. 

 I think we all can agree that saying goodbye is never easy.

And while the word “goodbye” has a rather negative emotional connotation in society, there is another way, a more positive way, to perceive it. Author, A.A. Milne, who is perhaps best known for his books about a teddy bear named Winnie-the-Pooh, once wrote: (see quote in blue box).

While saying goodbye does mean accepting that a part of our life is now over, it also provides us with a chance to realise just how blessed our lives have been - to look back and reflect on the journeys I’ve shared with some wonderful people, while being exposed to amazing and invaluable experiences.

Regardless of how long someone has been a part of our lives, whether it’s five minutes, five years, or five decades, their impact will always remain with us—even after we utter that simple, yet hard to say, two-syllable word.

The quote below, from Walt Disney, has continually provided me comfort on days when I’m feeling sad and need a little reminder of the blessings I’ve been bestowed, which no one can ever take away.

So, once again I say THANK YOU to the Principal, the administration staff, classroom/specialist teachers, educational support staff, parents/carers and students – you have enriched my life forever!  I shall miss passing through the beautiful Yarra Valley and Warrandyte each Tuesday and Thursday. 

But not gone yet – my last newsletter article will be next week!

Robyn Mulholland (School Chaplain)

                                                     (robyn.mulholland@education.vic.gov.au)