5 December 2022
Revd Peter Allen, Chaplain at Stansted Airport tells us about his ministry, the work of the chaplaincy team at the airport and their annual carol service which has become a real highlight of the festive calendar.
“My role as coordinating chaplain at Stansted airport sees me leading a team of six chaplains, including myself, as we seek to offer pastoral support and care to the staff and passengers at the airport.
Currently there are approximately 10,000 staff employed within the airport perimeter and approximately 40,000 passengers passing through the airport on any given day. As you can imagine a team of six chaplains can only be effective to a small proportion of these people but nevertheless, we do seek to be known by and available to as many as is possible as a team. One of the events that offers us the opportunity to be seen as a presence in the airport is the annual ‘Stansted Airport Sings Christmas’ which is much appreciated by staff and passengers alike.
“The longest serving member of the chaplaincy team, Major Sidney Pinches of the Salvation Army has overseen this event in previous years bringing in a Salvation Army band to accompany the carols and to play before and after the carol service. One year he invited Jonathan Andrew Hume who plays ‘Simba’ in The Lion King West End production who sang ‘O Holy Night’ and a secular Christmas song, which was wonderful.
“We always include the reading of the Christmas story which is read by either the Managing Director of the airport or one of their co-Directors. We sing well known carols, and the event is led by all the chaplains. It has become something of a tradition in the airport. “This year it’s taking place on Wednesday 14 December at midday and everyone is very welcome to come along and be part of a marvellous festive sing-along!”
