20 March 2024
Mark Spencer Ellis, Authorised Local Preacher at St Mary’s Church in Woodford is part of the Chaplaincy Team at Snaresbrook Crown Court.
Mark writes about his chaplaincy role which involves supporting those who visit and work at the Crown Court.
“It often comes as a surprise for people to learn that Snaresbrook Crown Court is the biggest Crown Court in the country. But with 20 courts it is. The complex was originally an orphanage but the only aspect remaining as it was originally is the Chapel. This is where we are based, and the Chaplaincy is run by the four parishes in the West Roding Mission and Ministry Unit (MMU)."
“What do we do? For about 90 minutes in the middle of the day we provide a quiet space in a very busy building. And visitors use it for all sorts of reasons. Some are looking for somewhere they can pause and think, some want to pray, and some are looking for someone to talk to. An essential quality in members of the Chaplaincy team is the capacity for non-judgemental listening."
“We have a table at the far end of the Chapel from the main door so that visitors can see us when they come in and also so that we can see from the body-language whether someone wants to be left alone or would like some contact. Sometimes there are very few visitors but there are also many occasions when we feel humbled and privileged to hear them sharing their experiences and feelings.
“The Crown Court can be a very stressful place. There are many reasons for this but recently the delay, sometimes of two years, in cases reaching trial is a major factor."
“Regular services of Holy Communion are held with the MMU incumbents as celebrants. “We are hoping to develop the Chaplaincy into an ecumenical one – building strong relationships with our ecumenical partners through this important ministry. Following an approach to other churches in January we had expressions of interest in joining the Chaplaincy from 12 new potential volunteers: a most appropriate end to the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.”
