Chaplains offer key support during Australian wildfires
While emergency services like rural fire brigades have their own chaplains who care for their staff and volunteers, chaplains in the DRCN often end up being a support to charity workers too – who often become overwhelmed by the very great needs they are facing, and the intense emotions people are going through.
“When it comes to actually being able to handle very very strong reactions of grief, loss, anger, disappointment and confusion, it’s really important that we have people on the ground who’ve had prior training in those areas,” Ralph explained.
“Chaplains basically are able to handle that type of experience. We are well equipped to deal with some of those painful times that many people would just find completely overwhelming.”