From the Revd Francis Pole
Sir, — While it was refreshing to read of the value of hospital chaplaincy (Features, 16 October), I must take issue with the suggestion that Roman Catholic chaplains do not operate in a generic capacity.
As a former RC priest in the 1970s, I can truthfully say that, while our primary concern was for Roman Catholics, we would never exclude the needs of other patients. Indeed, I ministered to other Christians, to Jews, and to those with no faith whatsoever.
Now, as an Anglican priest who leads an ecumenical team of some 35 chaplains — two of whom are RC clergy — to the South East Coast Ambulance Service, I can confirm that our ministry is for all staff, regardless of rank or position, and of any faith or none. We aim to be multifaith, making referrals, when requested to do so, to other faith leaders.
FRANCIS POLE
Senior Chaplain
SE Coast Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust
35 Turnpike Place
Crawley RH11 7UA