Hospital Chaplaincy Aotearoa has announced a rebrand that
reflects its continued commitment to the well-being of New
Zealanders in hospitals nationwide. Formerly known as the
Interchurch Council for Hospital Chaplaincy (ICHC), the
organisation’s new name embraces Aotearoa’s diverse
identity while reaffirming its mission to provide
compassionate support to patients, whānau, and hospital
staff.
“As Hospital Chaplaincy Aotearoa, we remain
committed to our mission of providing comfort and support to
people in hospitals across the country,” says Barry Fisk,
CEO. “This rebrand isn’t a change in what we do, but a
celebration of our roots in Aotearoa and a recommitment to
serving people of all faiths and backgrounds, during
life’s most vulnerable moments.”
The
new name’s Māori translation, Amokapua Hohipera
Aotearoa, carries deep symbolic meaning. Amo
refers to the supporting posts of a wharenui (meeting house)
that stand on either side of its entrance, their
outstretched arms symbolising strength, welcome, and
support. Kapua conveys a sense of embracing and
encompassing, together representing a chaplain as one who
stands with open arms, ready to support all who seek
comfort, care, and spiritual
guidance.
The wharenui holds further
significance for the organisation, which aligns its work
with Te Whare Tapa Whā, the holistic health model developed
by Tā Mason Durie. This model uses the wharenui to
represent the four dimensions of health: taha wairua
(spiritual health), taha whānau (family health), taha
hinengaro (mental health), and taha tinana (physical
health).
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“Just as a wharenui stands strong on four
sides, balanced well-being depends on these dimensions
working together,” explains CEO Barry Fisk. “When
spiritual care is overlooked, it can leave a gap in holistic
health. That’s where Hospital Chaplaincy Aotearoa steps in
– providing the vital spiritual support that completes the
picture of care.”
Every day, chaplains support
patients, whānau, and hospital staff with a listening ear,
compassionate presence, and inclusive care, regardless of
faith or background. “The life of a hospital chaplain is
incredibly varied,” says Regional Manager and Lead
Chaplain Rev Jeannine Epplett, who helped lead the
rebranding effort. “Every day looks different. We may be
comforting a grieving whānau, supporting a patient facing a
life-altering diagnosis, or helping staff cope with the
pressures of their work environment.”
With over 90
chaplains working in 36 hospitals across New Zealand,
Hospital Chaplaincy Aotearoa continues its essential role of
providing spiritual care that complements medical treatment,
enhances well-being, and strengthens the resilience of
patients, whānau, and healthcare staff.
For more
information about Hospital Chaplaincy Aotearoa’s
rebranding see the new website: www.hospitalchaplaincy.org.nz
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