Rev Lloyd Beynon, The Sunshine Coast Private Hospital’s first Chaplain, will retire from his post on 29 October after almost 14 years of service.
In his role as the hospital’s Chaplain and Pastoral Care Manager, Rev Beynon provides emotional, religious and spiritual care to patients and their families, as well as hospital staff and volunteers.
Rev Beynon describes his role as walking alongside people and simply caring for them.
“Being a Chaplain is an incredible privilege. I am invited into people’s lives to be a friend to them – I need to act gently, sensitively and courageously,” he said.
“I see in every person an ordinary person leading an extraordinary life. I get to help people see how special they are despite the challenges and difficulties they may be facing.”
“I find people humbly going about their everyday tasks to be very special.”
Rev Beynon was a public servant in the Northern Territory and Minister at the Mooloolaba Uniting Church before joining the hospital full-time as an employee of the Uniting Church of Australia.
“Even as a child working in my Father’s fruit and vegetable shop, I had a real interest in relating to people,” Rev Beynon said.
“I discovered my passion and calling for chaplaincy following some difficult personal circumstances, including the loss of a child and marriage breakdown,” he said.
General Manager, Wallis Westbrook, said he wished to acknowledge Rev Beynon’s outstanding service to the hospital and the local community.
“Lloyd has touched many thousands of people’s lives during his time as our Chaplain – there has been many kind words spoken, many hours spent listening and many smiles and much understanding given,” Mr Westbrook said.
“It’s not an easy role but Lloyd makes it seem that way – in times of hardship and despair, as well as times of absolute joy, Lloyd is always there to lend his unwavering support,” he said.
“On behalf of our staff and the numerous patients and families who he has assisted over the past 14 years, I would like to say a heartfelt thank you for dedicating your life to helping those in need.”
Rev Beynon plans to spend his retirement continuing to learn and educate, as well as spending more time with his family and travelling the world.
As part of UnitingCare Health, The Sunshine Coast Private Hospital is a not-for-profit private healthcare provider owned by the Uniting Church.