Pastoral Care
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"It's not about how much you do, but how much love you put into what you do that counts. Life isn't worth living unless lived for other people." St. Theresa of Calcutta
At its core, the ministry of pastoral care aims to imitate Jesus’ compassionate presence and continue his service to God's children. It calls us to care for the whole person -- body, mind, and spirit --, challenges us to support one another within our parish family with compassion, and entreats us to reach out to our brothers and sisters in the wider community with dignity.
Pastoral care is the way we, as a Catholic community, stand in faith and compassion beside one another along life's journey, especially during times of transition, illness, or loss. It encompasses offering practical and spiritual assistance in times of crises, visiting those who are homebound or in care facilities, reaching out with small gestures of kindness when our neighbors hit a bump in the road, and being present for prayer and moral support on behalf of the parish community. Additionally, our website offers listings of community resources – for everything from food pantries to addiction support – for those seeking information and services. Click here.
The various ministries of pastoral care also offer the opportunity for parishioners to live out their baptismal call to be disciples of Christ and servants of their brother and sisters. There is one that is best suited for you -- one that matches the gifts and talents that God graced you with and the needs of the ministry. Check out our website's Get Involved page for information on ministries such as the Ministry of Consolation, the Pastoral Visitation Ministry, the Prayer Shawl Ministry, the Ministry to College Students, and many more.
Because of privacy laws, our parish is not notified when a parishioner is hospitalized, homebound, or enters a health care facility. We must hear from the parishioner, a family member, or a friend if someone wishes the support of our pastoral care team. Click here to learn more about the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick.
How can we be of service to you and your loved ones? How can you be of service to your brothers and sisters in Christ? Throughout life's journey, we will all have seasons when we are the givers, and when we are the ones in need. Please contact Kate McGrath, our Pastoral Associate, if you are looking for either resources or opportunities to be of service.