Catholic Care’s prison chaplain, Richard Korkor, recently featured on ABC Radio’s Sunday Evenings with Sirine Demachkie, where he shared his unique journey from corporate finance to prison and hospital chaplaincy.
Richard, a Catholic lay (non-ordained) chaplain, described his path as “quite a journey,” shaped by professional upheaval and a search for deeper purpose.
“In the global financial crisis… the company I worked for went into liquidation, and I was made redundant. So there was a bit of soul searching,” he recalled.
That turning point sparked a 12-year transition, culminating in his chaplaincy work beginning in 2020.
Initially drawn to theological study with the idea of becoming a deacon, Richard instead discovered a different calling.
“I’m not sure if the Diaconate’s for me,” he reflected.
Following a Clinical Pastoral Education program at St Vincent’s Hospital, he was invited to consider prison chaplaincy, which Richard described as “the last place in the world I thought I’d end up.”
Yet, he said, “I haven’t looked back.”
(L-R) Sirine Demachkie, ABC radio presenter, Bernard Ellis Chaplaincy Coordinator and Richard Korkor. Image: supplied
Chaplaincy in prisons and hospitals
Today, Richard works with inmates in a maximum-security remand centre and patients in a hospital, offering spiritual care shaped by deep listening and compassionate presence.
“The prison… is almost like a massive pool of trauma that hasn’t been processed,” he explained.
“Whereas in the hospital… you’re dealing with loss of life, uncertainty around treatment, and suffering.”
One of the most surprising aspects of prison chaplaincy, he said, is “the peace you have in the role… how much it’s formed me – in my outlook of Church, of the human person, of brokenness.”
Chaplain at Parklea Correctional Centre Richard Korkor, with Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta, giving communion to inmates. Image: Supplied
A process of listening and human encounter
He emphasised the importance of presence over problem-solving: “One of the hardest words I found was powerlessness… This is not about fixing. It’s just about being present to the person in that moment in time.”
Richard described interfaith collaboration as a key part of the role.
“One of the officers asked us to bless a cell… So the Muslim chaplain and I went in and blessed it together. I think God must smile when that happens.”
He also leads meditation and communion services inside the prison, welcoming participants of all faiths.
“We play quiet music… guide them into a safe space. It’s beautifully received,” he said.
“And then we go into a communion service… so they feel like they’re part of this big Church, even though they’re here.”
Asked how he sustains his own wellbeing, Richard mentioned his faith and regular supervision.
“God is definitely part of it,” he said. “And I work with a professional supervisor monthly… It’s essential.”
Richard’s work stands as a powerful testament to faith lived out where it’s most needed — at the margins, behind bars, and beside hospital beds.
Listen to the full interview on ABC Radio (begins at 1:35:11).
Learn more about Catholic Care’s chaplaincy services in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains, and contact Catholic Care today for support.
