Purple Week channels spiritual journey

The colour purple served as a meaningful reminder last week with residents and staff at Bethanie Fields celebrating the importance of spiritual and emotional health.

The Eaton lifestyle village’s main event was a “purple themed” morning tea held on Tuesday to thank staff and volunteers for their contribution towards the “spiritual journey” of residents.

While the focus was on acknowledging the care provided to residents, Bethanie Fields chaplain Allan Murphy said it was important to remember families and people working close with them required support as well.

“It’s about the spiritual and emotional care that’s provided to our residents firstly, but also to the families as needed and our staff, Mr Murphy said.

“If they have issues, they can come to us and we’ll listen.”

With chaplains helping with everything from showering and toileting, to simply offering a listening ear, Mr Murphy said he wanted to emphasise the importance of “showing you care for the whole person”.

“I think too much of society focusses on just what we do and not who we actually are, and we miss so much,” he said.

“We all have needs and feelings and aspirations and hopes and as chaplains we try to help them realise them if it’s possible.”

“The celebration is just a reminder that you’re a person and you have value, you’re important and not to forget that.”

Staff were also participating in “random acts of kindness” throughout the week where they each picked a name and did something nice for that person.