Page 28 - NewsandViews 2023 whole publication
P. 28
Farewell to Declan Peter Wilson
On the 17th. August, we said farewell to Declan McConville, the N.H.S. lead chaplain for Poole,
Bournemouth and Christchurch hospitals. He has worked from Poole Hospital for the last 21 years and
helped to sustain the multi-faith ecumenical nature of the chaplaincy team through times of great
change.
Poole and Wimborne Quakers have had a chaplaincy presence there for over 12 years, and helped to
provide spiritual care for all faiths and none.
On the occasion of the 17th, Quakers were represented at Declan’s retirement party by Peter Wilson and
Elizabeth Mills. Sadly, Jenny Wells from Wimborne was not able to join us. Both Jenny and I had been
assigned regular ward rounds while Elizabeth assisted as part of the team arranging baby funerals at
Bournemouth Crematorium. Sadly, Covid put an end to all our arrangement as volunteers.
Declan continued through this crisis, and has always shown the true nature of love with his kindness, care
and commitment. He was and still is, the epitome of Love in Action. We will miss him very much, but he
has promised to come along to Meeting for Worship some time. He was always sympathetic to our
Quaker values and principles. Happy retirement Declan from us all.
Elizabeth, Declan and Peter
28
