Sydney Adventist Hospital (the San) marked its 123rd anniversary with three days of events bringing together chaplains, staff, alumni, volunteers and friends.
Held across the San campus and Wahroonga Adventist Church from August 13-15, the anniversary program included worship, learning, fellowship and thanksgiving opportunities.
The program began on Thursday with a “Chaplains Meet”, attended by chaplains from a range of disciplines, spiritual care volunteers and representatives from various faith traditions.
Guest speakers included Dr Andrew Harewood and retired Lieutenant General A C Roper from the United States, along with Pastor Eddie Hypolite. Presentations and discussions focused on professional standards, leadership and the changing landscape of spiritual care.
On Friday, defence force and aged care chaplains and Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) students gathered for an “In Conversation” session. The program included a devotion by Lt General Roper and a discussion with guest speaker Pastor Michael Nolan, with the questions being particularly relevant to those providing spiritual care in complex environments.
The program culminated on Sabbath, August 15, with a Homecoming service at Wahroonga Adventist Church. Dr Harewood presented the worship service message, focusing on faith, calling, service and leadership.
During the service, Sid Nicholas, Andrew Lam, Melva Lee, Dr Andrew Booker and Pastor Richie Reid were recognised for their contributions to the San community.
Following lunch, an afternoon hospital tour provided former staff and supporters an opportunity to revisit the campus and reconnect.
The celebrations concluded with a sunset service featuring guest speaker Edith Roper, followed by an Alumni and Friends Dinner.
“As the San celebrates 123 years, the challenge for the next generation is not simply to preserve what has been handed down, but to carry the spirit of compassionate service forward into a changing world,” said San Spiritual Care Services chaplain Yvonne Hypolite.
“The three days reminded us that the story of the Sydney Adventist Hospital is ultimately a story of people— people called to care, people willing to serve, and a community continuing to believe that healing is more than medicine and ministry is more than a profession.”
