Work Place Chaplaincy Scotland Blog

Growing chaplaincy

We interviewed WPCS Chief Executive Rev Iain McFadzean recently to capture a snapshot of how our dynamic charity is developing. His comments make for interesting reading!

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There seems to be a lot happening with WPCS Iain, would you like to outline what are the most significant developments you’ve noted over the past few months?

I think the most striking thing is the growth in recognition of WPCS by both business and church groups. This means more enquiries and more discussions about future chaplaincy.

One potential volunteer at a training day asked how WPCS is structured, is it a corporate organisation backed by big business? Or is it part of a church?

We are a bit of both really. We are an independent charity with no affiliation to any one denomination but supported by nearly all the mainstream churches. We are also an incorporated company which allows us to relate to and negotiate with some of the big names in business. We have a growing level of financial support coming from business and from partnership agreements with other organisations.

Since it was established some four years ago, WPCS has seen a remarkable growth spurt, in staff and volunteers, to what do you attribute that?

Jeremiah 29:11 ! I think God has plans for our country which involve the very scriptural concept of witness through service. WPCS has been able to show something of the love, compassion and hope of the gospel to people who want to hear about it but don’t understand the structures or language of organised religion. The fact that we offer unconditional care and acceptance speaks to people in a way they understand and opens the door to further spiritual exploration

How has that demand affected how you do your job as National Director and now CEO?

It is incredibly exciting. The opportunities seem to multiply by the day and many doors which seemed to be closed before are opening up. The challenge is to continue to grow and develop WPCS not just for today’s challenges but in order to be able to respond to tomorrow’s and that means planning now for training, structures and developments sometimes many years ahead but at the same time ensuring we are as good as we can be right now.

What was study leave like?

It was a challenge! It involved a course of study with the University of the Highlands and Islands on “Strategic Management and Leadership”. It was based around a case study of WPCS so involved me in blending theology, strategy and management disciplines. A new experience for me but a very useful one.

Will that shape how you work in the future?

Undoubtedly. It was good to have external confirmation that much of what we do in WPCS reflects good practice in the business world, as it should, but it also confirmed for me, the need for strong leadership, clear vision and an organisation in which people feel involved and valued.

Do you see WPCS moving in a different direction in response to the requests for service you are receiving?

I believe that God will continue to surprise us by opening doors and presenting opportunities which we can’t even guess at at the moment. Turning water into wine and walking on water were a surprise to the disciples, I don’t believe we are any better at predicting God’s next move!

What next for WPCS?

Notwithstanding what I have just said about God’s plans! I think we will see more partnerships with local churches and other Christian organisations and perhaps a development of what we consider to represent the “workplace” even challenging our understanding of the traditional definitions of work. The only thing I know for certain is that God will continue to challenge and equip us.

Talk of the town(s)
Word on the street

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