The Centre established its scholarship programme in 2010, with two bursaries of $5,000 available each year through Auckland, Victoria or Otago Universities for postgraduate students undertaking research into issues relating to ageing and spirituality. The programme is intended to encourage people to research the topic, from a variety of angles, depending on their discipline.

 

Revd Hardie is currently studying for a Masters Degree in Religious studies at Victoria University, Wellington. Originally a teacher, she received her Diploma Licentiate in Theology through St John’s College in Auckland. She subsequently worked in various Anglican parishes in the Hutt Valley and Wellington, finally serving as Canon in Residence at the Wellington Cathedral of St Paul. On retiring, she completed her BA in Religious studies.

 

Judith’s research will focus on identifying the issues of spirituality that confront carers of older people and the ageing population alike, in order to enable a deeper understanding of the ways in which expressed anxieties and needs might be met. A diverse group of people - Maori, Pasifika, Pakeha and Asian - care formally and informally for older people. Judith aims to identify ways in which they may be helped to recognise and give support to the spiritual needs of those who are ageing.

 

Further information on the scholarship programme is available through the Scholarships Office at each university, or from Dr Chris Perkins, Director, The Selwyn Centre for Ageing and Spirituality, at chrisp@selwyncare.org.nz