Pastoral Care at OUUC
A Ministry of Loving Presence and Support
The Pastoral Care Team at OUUC
Pastoral Care is a Ministry of loving presence and support. The Pastoral Care Team extends the care of the congregation to those who are in special need. We listen to provide supportive, one-to-one care to members and friends of OUUC. The Pastoral Care Team members are representatives of the Minister.
How can I contact the Pastoral Care Team?
Email: pastoralcare@ouuc.org
Sunday mornings, there are Pastoral Care Team members available before, during, and after services. They can be identified by the green Pastoral Care stole they wear.
Pastoral Care may be helpful when experiencing:
- Major life changes, such as birth, adoption, loss of job, divorce, or retirement
- Death of a family member or friend
- Health problems, illness, or hospitalization
- Isolation due to age, mobility, disability, or other factors
Please note:
Pastoral Care is not pastoral counseling, which requires a ministerial degree or certification/licensure as a counselor. Please contact the minister for pastoral counseling.
Confidentiality
Any personal information will only be shared with the team and Minister as necessary for purposes of coordinating care.
Other support available at OUUC:
Caring Friends: caringfriends@ouuc.org
Caregivers/Grief Group: communityminister@ouuc.org
How is Pastoral Care different from other OUUC groups?
The Pastoral Care Team provides short or long-term social/emotional support; the Caring Friends Team provides temporary logistical support (meals, medical equipment loans, rides to appointments, referrals to other providers, etc.); and the Caregivers/Grief group meets monthly and is comprised of people who have lost loved ones or are currently caring for those in the dying process.
How are Pastoral Team members selected for service?
The Pastoral Care Team serves at the invitation of the minister. If you are interested in serving our congregation as a member of the Pastoral Care Team, or if you have questions or concerns, please contact Reverend Mary Gear.
These concerns require a different approach:
- Major crises, such as suicide threat or psychological issues requiring professional intervention
- Thurston County Crisis Line: 360-586-2800
- Suicide Prevention Line: 988 or 800-273-8255
- Conflict between congregation members or complaints about OUUC should be addressed to the Minister or the Healthy Congregations Team
