From the Minister's Study

LAY PASTORAL CARE

Sometimes something happens in your life that has serious consequences. One of those “somethings” happened to me in February with the sudden diagnosis of liver failure for my brother and his subsequent tragic death. I learned a lot during those painful weeks. I learned things about my own family which made me proud, and I learned things about this congregation which made me grateful. For instance, I learned that many of you have suffered the unimaginable loss of a sibling. Learning this helped in a way that I can’t fully articulate. I also experienced warm and heartfelt cards from so many of you that I was blown away every day when the mail came. I, who have sent so many cards, had my faith renewed in them. They really did make a difference for me, Maren and Ruby. We even received a few meals from members of the congregation and it was a powerful way to be cared for.  Quite simply, we can and do make a difference in each other’s lives with the care that we give and allow to be given to us. If you are on the fence about allowing someone to care for you, I encourage you to reconsider.

Who might want lay pastoral care?

Challenges come our way in life. Some are pretty manageable. Others leave us feeling very alone and overwhelmed, or require of us great introspection and contemplation.

Lay Pastoral Care is available to offer sustained personal support to those enduring grief, illness, injury, disability, depression, marital changes, unemployment, relocation, caregiving, isolation, inability to attend church, or other difficult life situations.

Lay Pastoral care Associates have been trained by Rev. Julie to provide an ongoing, caring, listening presence, spiritual support, and hope in times of need. This program, the Lay Pastoral Care program, is fundamental to our congregation's mission statement that proclaims, “We are a caring religious community seeking to promote spiritual growth.” Reflecting on our suffering and our challenges is a source of spiritual growth. Allowing trained Lay Pastoral Care Team members to care for us during our times of tribulation is also one of the ways we enliven this sacred work of being a caring religious community.

How can I receive lay pastoral care?

All you have to do is call Rev. Julie at the church, 262-375-3890.  I will assign a Lay Pastoral Care Minister to contact you within a week. This service is available to members and friends of the congregation. There are no fees. This care is offered with strict confidentiality and is under the supervision of the minister.