Supporting Compassionate Care at Timaru Hospital

Hospital Chaplaincy Aotearoa

For 14 years, Rev. Alan Cummins has been a steady and reassuring presence for patients, families, and staff at the Timaru Hospital. Each weekday morning he moves through the hospital wards, visiting between 10 and 15 patients, as well as connecting with nurses, doctors, and support staff who often seek him out for a quiet conversation. His afternoons are spent in local rest homes, including The Croft, Strathallan, Margaret Wilson, and Wallingford, where he continues offering companionship, pastoral support, and monthly church services.

Alan describes his role as “a great privilege,” centred on simply being present with people—listening, encouraging, praying when requested, or offering comfort in moments of stress or grief. Although many referrals come through hospital staff, he also meets patients informally as he moves through the wards, often speaking with far more people than those on his daily list.

His work extends beyond bedside visits. Alan leads memorial and remembrance services in the hospital chapel, including a recent service for families affected by stillbirth and miscarriage. He also blesses rooms and workspaces when staff request it, supports families during times of loss, and makes the hospital chapel available as a quiet space for reflection. The chapel, he says, is “used far more than people realise,” providing a peaceful retreat for staff and visitors throughout the day.

The impact of this chaplaincy service is felt widely. Staff value having a trusted, familiar person to speak with; patients appreciate the warmth and connection during what can be an anxious time; and families often find comfort in a calm presence who is not rushed or clinical.

The Aoraki Foundation Miller General Impact Fund is proud to support a role that touches so many lives with compassion, dignity, and hope—quietly strengthening the wellbeing of our whole community.