Coralie Holmes has been vital to the success of school chaplaincy at Dakabin State High School for a quarter of a century! And she wouldn’t have it any other way.
“I believe that providing social, emotional and spiritual support to young people is an essential part of a schools well-being,” she says.
Coralie’s involvement with chaplaincy began around the time her eldest son started high school. She was invited to help the Local Chaplaincy Committee with the chaplain interview process. At the time, she was involved with the Canteen and P&C, which meant she already had experience and passion for the support sectors within the school.
“It’s been a privilege to help keep chaplaincy running as smoothly as possible over the years,” Coralie says.
“The chaplaincy service at Dakabin High has provided proactive and positive programs for students, but it also provides opportunities for our chaplain to sit with students in times of need.”
Coralie recognises that to build a thriving system it takes all hands on deck, but says being part of a team is a beautiful thing. She has thoroughly enjoyed seeing the behind-the-scenes of chaplaincy, and is grateful to be a part of it.
“Over the years, many people in the local community have been given the opportunity to be a part of this service – pastors, volunteers, teachers and parents,” says Coralie.
The benefits of community are undeniable, and Coralie recognises the ways in which giving to others has blessed her own life, too.
“I have come to realise that my life has been enriched by coming into contact with so many others who also have a heart for the young people in our community.”
“Chaplaincy has given me an awareness and respect for the school staff who care for the students. It has given me purpose and built my faith in God who has so richly blessed this school, as we look for opportunities to serve.”
Thank you for your unwavering support, Coralie. We couldn’t do it without your generosity!
Coralie’s 5 Top Tips for other LCC’s:
Be part of the team – It’s important to value one another. Remember, you’re part of the same team!
Communicate – Ask questions and follow up with one another, especially if you’ve got new people on the team.
Ask for help – No one can do it alone, and it’s more than okay to reach out when you need a helping hand.
Contribute – Everyone has different gifts and abilities, and appreciating the way different team members all work together is a beautiful thing.
Look out for each other – People can be going through massive things you know nothing about. Be kind at every opportunity!