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By becoming a Care Champion you will:
Meet Chaplain Shelley Gilmore
“Being able to listen and be there with them, even in the hardest places, is extremely special.” - Shelley Gilmore
Shelley’s desire to serve God began at an early age. She envisioned herself either as a nurse or perhaps the wife of a missionary, dedicating her life to helping others. However, her journey took an unexpected turn, leading her down a path she never could have imagined.
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A number of years ago, Shelley faced a personal crisis when her husband was hospitalised with a serious illness. During this difficult time, Shelley found herself feeling isolated, overwhelmed by stress, and in need of someone to talk to—someone outside of her circle of friends and medical professionals. This experience sparked a calling within her.
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Recognizing the value of emotional and spiritual support, Shelley decided to pursue a counselling degree. Ten years ago, she fulfilled that calling by becoming a hospital chaplain. For Shelley, being a chaplain is an immense privilege.
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“I get to meet the most amazing people and hear the most incredible stories of resilience and strength in the face of their own challenges and vulnerability.”
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Shelley’s work now primarily focuses on mental health, where she is encouraged by the fact that many Tangata Whaiora (those seeking health) have some level of faith in God.
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Key to her role are the skills of deep listening, compassion, and trusting the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Each patient and situation is unique, but some moments remain unforgettable. Shelley recalls sitting with families who had lost their babies at around 26 weeks’ gestation.
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“The babies are so gorgeous and perfectly formed. I remember families just loving on their baby, giving it cuddles in its basket, wanting it blessed, named, and given to God. It’s a time of immense grief and pain, but also profound love.”
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Despite her strong faith, Shelly emphasises that being a chaplain isn't about "being religious." It's about listening, caring, and simply being present for those in need.
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Shelley and her husband have been married for 42 years and are the proud parents of four children and ten grandchildren, who continue to inspire her to bring compassion and care to those she serves.​
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Chaplain Shelley Gilmore believes compassion and deep listening are important when journeying with a patient.
Thanks to an amazing community of supporters, Shelley provides these things daily to people facing some of the toughest times in their lives.
You can be part of that journey and enable chaplains like Shelley to be there when it's needed most.
Because we all need a little extra care at times