More than 140 Adventist school chaplains from across Australia gathered on the Gold Coast, Queensland, from October 18 to 21 for the Adventist Schools Australia National Chaplaincy Convention.
Hosted by Gold Coast Central Adventist Church, the three-and-a-half-day event provided opportunities for professional learning, networking, worship and service recognition.
As the primary pastoral presence in many Adventist schools, chaplains work closely with students, families and staff, contributing to the spiritual life and wellbeing of school communities. The convention sought to recognise this role and support chaplains in their ongoing ministry.
Seventh-day Adventist Church in Australia president, Dr Brendan Pratt, said, “It was inspiring to see our school chaplains network, share stories, worship and be empowered together. In an Australia that is otherwise disengaging from religious institutions, our schools offer a valuable connection point.
“Our chaplains are on the frontline, modelling and sharing Jesus at crucial life stages. Our schools are growing, and so is the need for chaplains who connect within our school communities and beyond, pointing students and families to the hope we have in Jesus.”
National chaplaincy coordinator for Adventist Schools Australia, Pastor Richard Reid, said the convention recognised chaplains’ contributions across the school system and offered opportunities for professional and spiritual development.
“We want to recognise and honour their contribution while equipping them for ongoing service to students and school communities,” he said.
The convention featured keynote presentations by Dr Gifford Rhamie from Newbold College of Higher Education in England, who spoke on biblical leadership and ministry in educational settings.
Reflecting on Dr Rhamie’s presentations, Pastor Reid said, “Through his ministry, our chaplains were challenged to reflect on their calling and return to their school communities with renewed purpose.”
Workshop sessions also addressed professional practice, collaboration and current issues facing school-based ministry. While each chaplain faces specific local challenges, Pastor Reid noted that, despite the diversity of education, unity can be found by adopting the perspective of “One school, many campuses”.
The convention also included youth directors, principals, education directors and administrators, recognising the importance of bringing these key ministry voices and leadership perspectives together. Their participation in conversations, workshops, and shared experiences provided valuable opportunities to strengthen relationships, deepen collaboration and build greater mission alignment.
The convention recognised several service milestones, presenting appreciation awards to Dr Paul Bogacs, Pastor Mike Parker, Pastor Cheryll Bird, Pastor Jerry Unser and Pastor Murray Hunter. Eleven chaplains also received 10- and 20-year Lemke Medallions for their sustained service in Adventist school chaplaincy.
“Adventist Schools Australia and the Australian Union Conference Ministerial Association combined to host an event that inspired, empowered and equipped our chaplains to shape thriving, Christ-centred communities of hope,” Dr Pratt said.
