Guildford Town Centre Chaplaincy’s Annual Conference 2026

17th April 2026 | Lieutenancy News

Guildford Town Centre Chaplaincy’s Annual Conference 2026

On Tuesday 17th March, The Lord Lieutenant was pleased to welcome, as patron to Guildford Town Centre Chaplaincy, attendees from the wider chaplaincy community as well as GTCC’s own Volunteer Chaplains to GTCC’s annual conference held at St Saviour’s Church, Guildford. The invitation was extended to all those exploring, supporting or involved in chaplaincy to come and be encouraged, inspired and connected.

The theme of the morning was ‘The Importance of Faith and Reflective Practice in Chaplaincy’. Revd Noelle Coe, Guildford Town Chaplain and Suzette Jones, chaplain at St Columbus House and GP Chaplain, shared their wisdom, learning and stories gained from their extensive experiences. Attendees were given the opportunity to discuss the content in small groups, put their learning into practice, network and ask their burning questions of the expert panel after lunch.

Everyone attending was given much to think about; the importance of pause for our own wellbeing as well as that of our clients; the value in a chaplain’s capacity to be present; and an encouraging reminder that a chaplain’s aim in each encounter is to simply leave someone more seen, more heard, and less alone than when we arrived.’

Noelle Coe, Town Centre Chaplain, shared: ‘At GTCC, we really value Michael’s support and commitment as Patron but also his appreciation and acknowledgement of the valued contribution made by all volunteers. We are so encouraged by the number attending today and by the ongoing response to a growing awareness and openness to GTCC’s work and chaplaincy generally. It remains a privilege to empower and inspire others as chaplains to be that listening, non-judgemental and compassionate presence.

If you would like to know more about Volunteer Chaplains and where they are currently working please do get in touch with GTCC at susanna.hoar@gtcc.org.uk