We are The Christie magazine March 2025 Staff edition

A word from our honorary chaplains

Behnaz Farhadi (Church of England chaplain) “As an honorary chaplain at The Christie, I feel truly privileged to offer spiritual and pastoral care to patients, families, and staff. Chaplaincy is about presence – offering a listening ear, a word of comfort, and quiet reassurance that no one journeys alone, whatever their beliefs may be. I work alongside a dedicated team, striving together to create a space where compassion, peace, and hope can flourish. One way we do this is through 'Haven of Hope', a weekly reflection group on Fridays. It offers a moment of stillness and renewal – a space where staff and patients can pause, reflect, and find strength amid the demands of hospital life. One of the most inspiring parts of my role is witnessing the strength of patients and families. Their resilience and faith are deeply moving, and our staff show incredible compassion and dedication too. This place is more than a hospital – it's a community of hope. It is an honour to walk alongside others, offering faith, comfort, and healing.”

"Hospitals are great levellers, the friendships that grow between patients and families of different faiths and backgrounds amaze me"

Rabbi Dovid Lewis (Jewish chaplain) “Working as a volunteer chaplain means my phone can ring at any moment, sometimes in the middle of the night, requiring me to drop everything and head to the hospital. While I am usually called to visit Jewish patients, I’ve also supported people of other faiths – like the time a young man was upset because he couldn’t get hold of his chosen chaplain. I explained that I was Jewish but would obviously help, and I found myself reciting Psalms and Hebrew prayers by the bedside of his loved one. Hospitals are great levellers, the friendships that grow between patients and families of different faiths and backgrounds amaze me. We are advised not to get emotionally attached, but the relationships we develop are very strong. I’ve attended memorial services and been blessed to join celebrations long after treatment has ended.”

"Chaplaincy is about presence – offering a listening ear, a word of comfort, and quiet reassurance that no one journeys alone, whatever their beliefs may be"

Zenab Sajawal (Muslim chaplain) “I have been the honorary Muslim chaplain at The Christie for 23 years, offering spiritual support and prayers for patients at all times, especially for those on the end-of-life pathway. I am available 24 hours a day and my role has many facets, including helping families navigate key arrangements in line with their faith and traditions, and to access financial support when needed. My practice has always remained person-centred, and I have always gone above and beyond to ensure our patients’ spiritual and religious needs are met with care and dignity."

Father Martin Dowd (Roman Catholic chaplain) "The human side of

chaplaincy is always the same, we offer support and care. If we don’t meet the human need first, we won’t get it right. The religious input should come on top of that foundation of care.

"It is an honour to be the Muslim chaplain at The Christie"

My ministry offers the sacraments, including anointing the sick, holy communion, and confession. In times of need we offer absolution, and in some cases, an

"For me, nothing compares to seeing someone ring the bell at the end of treatment, knowing our support made a difference is what trulymatters"

apostolic pardon. We visit wards with support from volunteers and Mass is held every Wednesday at 12.15pm in the chapel. It's a privilege to be welcomed into the lives of those in need. Patients and staff trust us in their most vulnerable moments."

You are not alone Whether you are looking for spiritual guidance, a quiet space, or simply someone to talk to, our chaplaincy team is here for you. To speak with a chaplain or find out more about our spiritual care service, please email the-christie.spiritualcare@nhs.net or visit department 57. If you are in urgent need, the 24/7 on-call service is available through our switchboard on 0161 446 3000.

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