Pastoral Associates (PAs) are a group of caring lay people who are invited by the minister to assist with outreach to members of the congregation who are experienceing a time of special need. We provide practical assistance, social connection, and emotional support during times of crisis or difficult periods of transition. We are there to share in the celebration of joyous life events as well.
The kinds of things we do:
- Visit members and friends who are homebound or hospitalized
- Arrange for transportation to medical appointments or to Sunday services
- Provide phone calls or visits to those in need of comfort, care and support related to major life transitions, care giving issues, personal crisis, or bereavement
- Run an important errand to ease the burder during hardships
- Assist with finding additional resources for services and supports within the community
- Offer educational workshops on such topics as healthy communication skills, bereavement, memory and aging, and suicide awareness
- Deliver a meal or two during times of illness, recovery or loss
We can be of help to you during times of:
- Sudden or prolonged illness
- Change in health
- Transition to a new career
- Challenging parenting issues
- Birth or adoption of a baby
- Loss of a loved one, a job, or an important life role
- Divorce, or separation from life partner
- Social isolation homebound due to illness or disability
- Taking on the role of care giver for an aged parent
Our current Pastoral Associates:
Linda Kirk, Chair Marie Baltz Karen Foernsler Sylvia Kirk
Linda Mikell Janet Moulton John Seppala Linda Volkersz
Emergency / End of Life Planning
Please download an In Case of Emergency (ICE) / End of Life Planning form so we know how best to assist you in an emergency. All members are encouraged to complete this form in order to assist the Pastoral Associates and Minister in responding to your needs when you are ill or dealing with an emergency. Please print a paper copy to send or give to the Minister. Copies will be stored in a locked file in the Minister's office and can be revised or replaced at any time. Copies of Advance Directives (health care proxies and/or living wills) can also be submitted for filing.
If you have needs or concerns about yourself or another member of the congregation, or if you would like to share news of a joyful event in your life, please contact: