Carinity Education Southside students are benefitting from school chaplain Sonia Davies offering holistic support to the young women.
“I had some close friends ask me what my dream job would be. My reply was, ‘to work with teen girls and their families, to encourage and journey with them’,” Sonia said.
“I became a chaplain because I love teens and have always seemed to be able to connect with them. Without the responsibilities of teaching curriculum, we can focus on relationships.
“I believe relationships are key, so I try to mix with the students as much as possible. Support is a huge part of my role and the various ways that can look – from conversations and prayer, through to home visits and delivering food parcels.”
Students such as Georgia are benefitting from Chaplain Sonia’s support.
“Sonia is there for me; I can talk to her and feel comfortable. She helps support me with work and my friends. She helps me a lot with my mental health and my friendships. I think they are better than before,” Georgia said.
Fellow student Anna Leigh says Sonia “makes sure my day is alright, smiles and checks in with me, supports and has conversations with me”, while classmate Libby says the chaplain “has been there for me at my lowest”.
Sonia is inspired by witnessing “wonderful outcomes” for the teenaged students including those experiencing difficult relationships with family members.
“Seemingly insignificant interactions can have a profound impact, some we will never know and some deeply significant to our students,” Sonia said.
“We are all on a journey and made mistakes, but our past does not define us. I love seeing the bravery and courage our students show constantly, and seeing the small steps each of them makes becoming bigger steps.”
You can support Carinity to place more dedicated and passionate chaplains into Carinity Education schools across Queensland by donating to the 2022 Carinity Chaplains Appeal. Donations of $2 or more are tax deductible. Donate online.