Chaplain Bennett
17 October 2007
Chaplain Ronald Bennett has stepped away from the pulpit at St Joseph’s Parish in Upper Hutt and is in the Solomon Islands with the New Zealand Defence Force.
The Hutt native who was educated at St Patrick’s College is chaplain for the 44 NZDF personnel who are in the Solomon Islands working with the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI).
The role keeps Chaplain Bennett busy, as he works as ‘padre’ not only to the Kiwi troops but also the full contingent of RAMSI personnel based at Guadalcanal, including Australian and Tongan soldiers. The Australians and the Police have their own padre at various times, and this ensures there is always one person available who can work with all of the groups.
Chaplain Bennett says there is also a commitment to the wider community of the Solomon Islands within his role.
“In late September I travelled with the Australian chaplain to six churches in Honiara. We spent time with the ministers to get to know the spiritual and material needs of the people. I also attended a service at the Holy Cross Church with the Tongan soldiers, and was invited to say a few words in Maori and English.”
Chaplain Bennett says that he finds it worthwhile attending community events, where he has the opportunity to meet and talk to local leaders. He recently attended a re-opening of a police station and was present for the celebrations at Police International Day. Meeting with Aid agencies is also a part of his role.
Chaplain Bennett joined the Territorial Force in 1989 and previously served in Bouganville during 1999 – 2000. The skills gained from his first deployment will stand him in good stead for the challenges that this tour in the Solomon Islands will provide.
“Being away from home can have its testing times and I’m here to support the Kiwi troops and their families back home where needed. This is an exciting mission to bring peace and stability to this beautiful region, and I’m really pleased to be involved. There’s so much to learn about the culture and people here, and it’s a great experience.”
The platoon groups deploy to the Solomons on four month rotations and work alongside other supporting nations including Australia, Tonga and Papua New Guinea. New Zealand has contributed to RAMSI since its inception in July 2003.
The roles of the Kiwi troops include helping to maintain security in downtown Honiara and at Rove Prison, as well as carrying out patrols.
Ends
Currently 777 New Zealand Defence Force personnel are deployed on 17 operations, UN missions and defence exercises around the world.