Chaplaincy at YMCA DownsLink Group is about presence rather than answers and making young people feel safe, heard and accepted – often for the first time.
Chaplaincy is a real opportunity to hear the voices of the young people we serve.
Mike grew up in Cardiff and left the UK at 19 to study psychology at Queen’s University in Ontario, Canada. “It was a formative time, academically and personally, as I was able to explore different schools of thought and world religions – and search my soul”.
There, he discovered Gaudiya Vaishnavism, also known as bhakti – the yoga of devotion and the heart. Rooted in love and service, it resonated deeply and he immersed himself in study and practice. An opportunity arose to live in India as a monk in an ashram, followed by seven years of monastic life including travel in Mexico and Europe.
Passing through Brighton, he connected with the local bhakti community, began leading a Bhagavad-Gita study group and met his partner. The city became home and Mike transitioned into lay life.
He trained in animation and ran a motion design business for several years. But over time, he felt drawn back to people-focused work.
“I realised I missed direct human connection,” he says. “When I came across this chaplaincy role, everything came together: my background in psychology, my spiritual practice, and my desire to support young people.”
What chaplaincy looks like in a youth-facing organisation
For Mike, it begins with listening.
“A chaplain isn’t a therapist or someone with all the answers,” he explains. “We’re here to listen without judgement – to be a sounding board. This creates welcoming spaces where people find meaning and inner strength.”
A trusted presence
Unlike support workers, chaplains aren’t responsible for housing, rent or case work.
“This more informal dynamic allows young people to meet us on different terms, without feeling they have to put their guard up”.
The aim is to become an approachable, consistent presence.
“Relationship building takes time,” Mike adds. “Nothing meaningful happens overnight. But when young people see they can open up safely, trust starts to grow.”
Belonging through ordinary moments
Chaplaincy often unfolds through simple, shared experiences.
“On Wednesday or Thursday nights we come in, cook dinner, hang out, maybe play a board game or create art,” Mike explains. “It’s about creating a relaxed, family‑like environment – something many young people haven’t experienced before. This can be profoundly healing.”
In one of Mike’s first sessions, a game of table tennis drew people in, music followed, and soon residents were connecting and forming new friendships.
“These sessions go beyond the relationship with the chaplain – they help ease isolation and create a sense of belonging.”
Meaning, spirituality and inclusion
“I am here for any questions about spirituality or search of meaning.”
As a Christian organisation, YMCA DownsLink Group supports people of all faiths and none. Mike brings experience from multiple spiritual traditions and adapts his approach to each individual, grounded in Christian and Hindu teachings of love and compassion.
“As a perennialist I focus on shared human experiences,” he explains. “Curiosity, respect and meeting people where they are.
“Jesus spoke about his father’s house having many rooms. I really relate to that idea.”
Activities often focus on universal practices, such as informal mindfulness, that help young people reflect on who they are and where they’re going.
“It’s all part of creating safe spaces, which are inclusive by nature,” Mike says.
When asked what he hopes people feel after spending time with him, he shares:
“I hope they feel empowered and recognise each of us is very valued and valuable – whatever the world might say.”
Here for staff, too
Chaplaincy support extends beyond residents to staff, offering a space to reflect and talk openly.
“Our ears are our most valuable tool,” Mike says. “Staff often carry a lot, and sometimes they just need someone with listens with compassion.”
Already, conversations with staff have led to meaningful and mutual support.
In a world shaped by rapid technological change, opportunities to connect offline are more important than ever.
Looking ahead
Mike is excited to be part of Brighton and Hove’s diverse community
“It’s such a creative, open city,” he says. “We can all learn from each other.”
He hopes to build on community partnerships, recruit volunteer chaplains and develop sustainable support for the service.
At its heart, chaplaincy reflects the YMCA’s founding ethos of companionship.
“It’s a space where you can find yourself and feel accepted,” Mike says.
Chaplaincy sessions run weekly at our supported housing services. To find out more, visit our Chaplaincy page or learn about volunteering with us here.
