28 September 2024
Hannah Robinson, Priest in Charge at St John’s, Moulsham, writes about her ministry as Chaplain at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) in Chelmsford alongside therapy dog, Benson:
As the chaplain at ARU Chelmsford campus, I have the privilege of supporting students and staff of all faiths and none in their spiritual and emotional needs. Sometimes that means listening to their struggles, offering occasional prayer or guidance, however most of the time it’s simply being a friendly reassuring presence. But I am not alone in this ministry at ARU. I have a faithful companion who helps me to connect with people, especially when they feel uncomfortable with the clerical collar. His name is Benson, and he is my ‘Pawstral Assistant’ and nearly always brings a smile to peoples’ faces and comfort. The caveat to this is when food is around.
Benson is an English Show Cocker Spaniel, and he loves people. He is gentle, friendly, and calm. He is one year old so is still a puppy, and he helps me in my work both at the university and in my church ministry. Most notably he has a monthly column in the Moulsham Times about his incompetent humans. Which means he is regularly recognised around Moulsham, and we’re stopped for chats and a stroke.
He has visited many places with me, but his favourite place is the ARU Chelmsford campus, where he is loved by the students and staff.
Benson assists my ministry in many ways. He helps me to break the ice and start conversations with people who might not otherwise approach me. He attracts attention and curiosity, and he makes people smile and laugh. He also provides emotional support and comfort to people who are stressed, lonely, or anxious. He is a great listener, and he does not judge. He is always happy to receive a hug or a treat, and gives unconditional love in return.
There are many benefits of having a therapy dog on campus and in church life, both for the students, parishioners, and for me. Research has shown that interacting with dogs can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, improve mood, and enhance social skills. For the students, Benson can help them to cope with the challenges of academic life, such as exams, deadlines, and homesickness.
For me, Benson is more than a pet dog. He is my partner in ministry, always at my side, whether it is writing a sermon, lecture, or an email – albeit often snoring in his basket. Benson gives me joy and companionship, he reminds me of God’s love, forgiveness and grace. He is a blessing to me and to everyone he meets.
This article has been taken from the latest edition of WePray, our quarterly prayer diary which brings together our Cycle of Prayer and stories from across our Diocese.
