East Midlands Synod Moderator The Revd Geoffrey Clarke has participated in the dedication of a new Chapel at Oakhill Secure Training Centre in Milton Keynes.
Oakhill is a place of safety, supporting the education, rehabilitation and resettlement of up to 80 boys and girls in custodial care, aged 12-18. United Reformed Church Minister The Revd Phil Wall plays a key role in its multifaith chaplaincy team, alongside Muslim colleagues Alwiya and Kash.
The dedication of the new ‘Chapel of Hope’, on Thursday 5 September 2024, also incorporated an Act of Thanksgiving for 20 years of chaplaincy at the Centre. Providing help for every young person whether they follow a religious faith or not, the chaplains offer a listening ear, a chance to pray, and mentoring support wherever needed. They also seek to offer encouragement and assistance to Oakhill’s staff members.
As well as Geoffrey, participants in the inter-faith dedication included imams and synagogue leaders, former and volunteer chaplains, the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire Kurshida Mirza BEM and the Chaplain General The Venerable James Ridge, who oversees all prison/YOI chaplains in England and Wales.
Asking God’s blessing upon the new sacred space, they heard how it was important that it is called ‘the chapel of Hope’ – because Hope is at the heart of each of the faiths represented. In Phil’s words:
“A reassuring hope that tells us God has plans for our good. A radical hope that encourages us to look honestly at how the world is but to dream wildly at how it might be. A firm hope that told us to always look for the light, no matter how dark the day may feel. It’s a hope, for us, that is grounded in the love of God but that can be glimpsed in the people around us. For every single one of us can shine with the light of God. Granted, in some, you might have to look a little harder than others – but whether it’s a flicker or a flame - it’s there.”
Words of blessing for the chapel were spoken by Geoffrey and others, including the following words from Stan Cohen of the Milton Keynes and District Reform Synagogue:
May its doors be open to those in need
and its space be filled
with kindness and compassion
May love dwell within its walls,
and joy shine from its windows.
May God’s peace protect,
and God’s presence never leave it.
Amen.
