Airport plays host to annual conference of chaplains

The annual UK and Ireland Airport Chaplains’ Network conference was hosted for the first time at Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) with twenty eight chaplains from across the country gathering to learn more about the day to day operations at the airport and to share good practice on spiritual and pastoral activity.

Local minister the Rev Nick Baker of Guiseley Methodist Church, set up the chaplaincy at Leeds Bradford last year. Since then the Rev Richard Dimery of St James’s Church, in Horsforth, Leeds, joined the service to represent the Church of England.

During the meeting, which took place earlier this month, John Packer, Bishop of Ripon and Leeds, discussed the positive relationship between the established Church and the development of chaplaincy work.

John Parkin, Leeds Bradford Airport’s chief executive, gave an overview of the aviation industry in the UK and the airport’s role in the wider community. He also highlighted the importance of including spirituality and pastoral care on the business agenda.

The Rev Nick Baker, LBA’s airport chaplain, said: “This session has enabled us to engage and gain a greater understanding of the wider context of faith and the airport chaplaincy service. This bodes well for the development of further relationships with other faith communities in our region.”

The chaplaincy is available to anyone, regardless of faith or belief and will provide confidential support, care and counselling for the airport community. It provides pastoral and spiritual care and guidance to all who work at the airport and for all those who travel through it.

Mr Parkin said: “We are delighted to host the Chaplaincy Network and share valuable experiences and knowledge with other airports. A chaplaincy provides pastoral and spiritual care to all who work at the airport and for all those who travel through it, irrespective of faith or religious belief.

“Leeds Bradford Airport plays an important role in our local community and I am pleased that we are able to offer this on-site assistance and support for both staff and passengers,” Mr Parkin added.