Historical information

Hilda Elizabeth Foster (1890-1982) was commissioned as a Deaconess in 1914 giving a lifetime of service to the church particularly in the social care aspect of the Gospel. She was also a double certified nurse. Deaconess Hilda Foster began her work as a Deaconess in South Melbourne and then served for 13 years with the Presbyterian Sisterhood in North Fitzroy caring for unmarried mothers and their babies. In 1933 she was appointed Matron of the Presbyterian Girls' Home in Elsternwick where she worked for 15 years. She retired in 1948 when it was noted "In complete dedication matron has given herself to this care of souls". Deaconess Foster was awarded the British Empire Medal for her work in the Queen's birthday honours in 1981. Deaconess Foster was one of the first qualified Mother Christmasses in Australia.
[Minutes of the Sixth Synod, Oct 1982]

Physical description

CL051.1 and CL051.2 Round metal Presbyterian Deaconess' badges. The badges have writing around their blue edges and a white cross and bush in the centre. The badges each have a safety chain. The badges are in a maroon leatherette jewellery box which has a handwritten label on it.

Inscriptions & markings

"My Deaconess Badge" "Non ministrari sed ministrare"