Life is a journey
Stephanie Buckland Chief Executive Officer, Amana Living
Amana Living exists to support older people to lead fulfilling lives. This means supporting their emotional and spiritual wellbeing, as well as their physical needs. Our annual Dedication of Service is a moment to reaffirm this commitment and reflect on our role within the community.
This year, the Dedication of Service was held at Wollaston Chapel in Mt Claremont, led by The Most Revd Kay Goldsworthy AO, Archbishop of Perth. During the service,
Archbishop Kay spoke about the chapel’s significance, explaining that its design was inspired by a tent - a symbol of a place where people gather to meet, celebrate, and prepare for the next stage of their journey.
The Rt Revd David Bassett, Assistant Bishop of the Diocese of Perth, built on this theme, speaking about life as a journey marked by joy and challenges. Quoting Winnie the Pooh, Bishop David said, ‘Life is a journey to be experienced, not a problem to be solved.’ This reinforced the idea that we travel together on life’s journey with our residents, clients, staff, and the broader community.
Our chaplaincy team plays a key role in this journey, walking alongside our residents, clients, and staff. During the service, we were honoured to commission three new chaplains to join our dedicated chaplaincy team.
Meet our new chaplains
The Revd Gareth Gilbert-Hughes has joined Amana Living as a full-time chaplain. Ordained in England in 1999, Gareth has extensive experience in parish and chaplaincy roles, including at Hertford College, University of Oxford. In Western Australia, he has served as Precentor at St George’s Cathedral and as a parish priest in Floreat.
The Revd Sylvia Grevel has been part of Amana Living as a locum chaplain for two years and now joins permanently in a part-time role. She was ordained by Archbishop Kay on 24 February. Sylvia will provide ministry to our residents and clients while serving as a curate alongside Amana Living’s Senior Chaplain,
The Revd Jeni Goring.
The Revd Andrew Milne steps into a part-time chaplaincy role, bringing experience and dedication to his pastoral care work. Originally a school teacher, Andrew was ordained a deacon in February 2022 and served as the curate at the Parish of Mt Pleasant. He became a priest in November 2022 and joined our chaplaincy team in March.
As we support our residents, clients, and staff, we recognise that each journey is unique. Through the guidance of our chaplaincy team, we offer care and encouragement, celebrating both the challenges and joys of life, ensuring everyone in the Amana Living community feels valued and connected along the way.
Image: The Reverends Gareth Gilbert-Hughes, Andrew Milne and Sylvia Grevel
