Airport chaplain is a ‘dream’ post for ‘festival goer’ Iain

The new chaplain of Glasgow Airport says his appointment to one of the UK's busiest transport hubs is a dream come true - and even tops looking after music fans attending The Reading Festival, which was part of a previous role.  

Major Iain Hudson of The Salvation Army took up the full-time role as the airport’s chaplain this month and will be on hand to offer practical and pastoral support to any of the 30,000 passengers who pass through on an average day, as well as more than 5000 staff who are responsible for keeping the airport operating 24/7. 

The Salvation Army chaplaincy team includes volunteers Marianne Harvey and Dawn Foxley. The mission of the team is, ‘To be there for anyone who needs our service, irrespective of denomination, faith or creed’. According to Iain, they might be responding to the demands of a major incident or simply a worried individual whose luggage has gone missing. They will also oversee the multi-faith prayer room which is located just before the security gates to enable it to be used by anyone visiting the airport.

Iain said: "We have a fantastic relationship with Glasgow Airport and are honoured to be able to support staff and passengers. As a church and charity, we began in Scotland 145 years ago at a time when aircraft had not been invented. Those early evangelists could not have imagined such a role, yet for me it sits perfectly with our mission. God calls us to be with the people we serve and we respond to their needs without discrimination. In this place, there are many people who might call on our services, of all faiths and none.

“When my wife Alison and I were the church leaders in Reading we supported the Reading Festival as part of a Salvation Army team where we were a church serving tea and coffee, food and providing a listening ear and support to many of the 100,000 festivalgoers over the August Bank holiday weekend. So I'm comfortable speaking to people who don't go to church and I love the idea of meeting different daily opportunities as they present themselves. Already the number of spiritual conversations with employees and travellers who have opened up and shared their concerns has been incredible.

"This role is something I have dreamt about. Historically the role of airport chaplain here has been filled by Salvation Army officers in retirement and on a part-time basis. It's a significant and bold investment by The Salvation Army to extend its support with a full-time post.”

Major Iain and his wife Major Alison, who has a separate role supporting Salvation Army officers across the Central and Southern Scotland Division, are pleased to be back in Scotland where they were first appointed as younger officers 29 years ago to Perth and then Edinburgh Gorgie.

Iain added: "People are passing through, so unless they are going for a specific reason, perhaps a loved one has died or is ill, then they may not feel the need to speak to me. But I am here if someone needs me."

Mark Beveridge, managing director of Glasgow Airport, said: "We’re delighted to have Iain on board. People recognise and respect the uniform of The Salvation Army and know it's an organisation that has always been very friendly and welcoming to people of all faiths and backgrounds. That comes through in Iain and I look forward to having him here. We know Iain will provide a friendly face and support for both passengers travelling and our staff.”

Major Janet Robson, Divisional Commander for The Salvation Army in central and southern Scotland, said: “We’re grateful for the opportunity to be involved in the life of Glasgow Airport and the service it brings to the people who come through its doors every day.”