ONE OF the borough’s mayors has made history – by appointing a chaplain. Cllr Sally Gurney has chosen humanist Helen Jeffries for the Wokingham Town Council role.
It is the first time a humanist has been selected for such a position, and she will help with civic functions including Mayor’s Sunday and the Remembrance Day ceremonies. Duties will include leading memorial ceremonies, and to lead reflective moments at formal occasions.
Although the first humanist chaplain was appointed to Lewison in 1998, this is the f irst such appointment for Wokingham borough.
Cllr Gurney was pleased that Ms Jeffries had agreed to the role, saying it was customary for a mayor to chose a chaplain for their term in office
“It was important to me to choose someone to work with in my mayoral year who is not connected to any religion, and is aligned with my own views, so together we can look at the core values we all seek, regardless of faith or belief,” she explained.
“Helen and I clicked from the start, and I am delighted that she agreed to take on this role and go on this journey with me.”
Ms Jeffries usual role as a celebrant includes officiating at weddings and naming ceremonies, but she is pleased to help Cllr Gurney.
“In public life, a humanist chaplain can be truly inclusive by reminding everyone of our shared human values, regardless of faith or belief. I’m honoured to have been appointed and look forward to serving the Council and the town,” she said.
And Humanists UK director of ceremonies, Deborah Hooper, wished Ms Jeffries well.
“We send our congratulations to Helen and Sally for Helen’s well-deserved appointment and wish her well throughout her tenure. Over half the UK’s population now say that they belong to no religion and it is important that this is reflected in public life.”
