A Tenby born Reverend, who now works in the health sector, has published a book called ‘In the Midst of Life: Insights from a Hospital Chaplain’.

Rev’d Michael Marsden (pictured) who was born and brought up in Tenby and attended Greenhill School, was ordained in Llandaff Cathedral in 1982 and has worked in a number of church and health care settings throughout South Wales.

He presently works within the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, and is involved in nurse training and lectures regularly at the University of South Wales.

Married to Salli with two adult daughters, Lydia and Lucy, and a Parson Jack Russell called Toby, Rev’d Marsden’s book covers over 30 years’ experience working in health care as a chaplain, ministering to a countless number of patients, their families and health care staff.

In addition to these moving stories, each short, self-contained chapter contains a passage of scripture and prayer to assist the reader to reflect and ponder.

The Foreword has been written by Archbishop Rowan Williams, (formerly Archbishop of Canterbury): “I can’t think of another book that so beautifully sums up the vocation of a hospital chaplain, with a wealth of personal recollection and a wealth of invaluable quotation and reflection…. Michael writes with wit and clarity and compassion not simply about sickness and health but about the amazing grace of being human, and the joy of witnessing to this,” wrote Dr Rowan Williams.

Rev’d Lance Sharpe, Registrar, College of Health Care Chaplains, also said:

“When reviewing this book, I imagined it to be just another book on healthcare chaplaincy. However, I was pleasantry surprised as I was instantly struck by the personable tone that Michael writes in and the wisdom contained in the text is clearly borne of many years’ experience of frontline chaplaincy.

“The reflections and stories Michael uses in the book resonated deeply with my own experiences as a chaplain and certainly reminded me of the highs and lows that travelling alongside patients and reiterates the absolute privilege it is to share in their journey.

“I also appreciated the devotional and prayerful style that Michael employs in the book too. Using scripture, poems and prayers I can see this book being a useful resource for those involved in chaplaincy and pastoral ministry and as a valuable insight into the chaplain’s ministry for those exploring a vocation in this field…I am confident it will connect with all those involved in this work whatever their position or experience.

“I would wholeheartedly recommend this book for anyone interested in healthcare ministry.

‘In the Midst of Life: Insights from a Hospital Chaplain’ is now available to purchase on Amazon for £7.99.