What are Pastoral Associates?

The Pastoral Associates program is a lay pastoral ministry that supplements ministerial services and coordinates other community resources. Pastoral Associates work in cooperation and collaboration with the ordained ministers toward the goal of a more caring community in which members express their interconnectedness by reaching out to support one another in times of need and to rejoice in times of joy. We seek to promote an atmosphere of hope and to ensure that no member of our community need fear being alone in a time of crisis.

Pastoral Associates are effective and accepting listeners and supportive friends. Through ongoing training, they put the Unitarian Universalist principles to work assisting people in need within an ethical framework of confidentiality and a focus on working for the benefit of the person being served.

Pastoral Associates are selected and trained by the ministers and the Program Coordinators.

Who uses Pastoral Associates?

Pastoral Associates support is helpful during life transitions such as illness, death of a loved one, marriage, divorce or separation, a new baby, job loss, retirement, nursing home stays, etc.

People can call upon a Pastoral Associate when they are in pain, sick, lonely or struggling with changes. It can be comforting to know you’re not alone and it helps to have someone from the church community listen, care and offer support.

What do Pastoral Associates do?

Pastoral Associates offer a "ministry of presence" to people in times of transition. They develop confidential relationships ranging from one or two phone conversations to regularly scheduled visits over many months. They primarily offer listening and support. Pastoral Associates assist with concrete problem solving and can try to arrange for a ride or a meal when possible. They consult with the ministers and offer access to other resources as needed. Sometimes more than one Pastoral Associate will offer support.

Can I still talk to a minister?

Yes! You can still go to a minister with your joys and concerns. Pastoral Associates are not meant to replace the minister’s role in pastoral care. The goal of the Pastoral Associates program is to expand the opportunities in this community to give and receive pastoral care.

Call on behalf of someone you care about.

It is hard to ask for help. If you know someone who could use some support, please do not hesitate to call one of the coordinators or ministers.