Pastoral Assistant

Sharing the Pastoral Ministry

Pastoral Assistants are men and women who share in the ministry of caring for churchgoers, and wider community.  They have a heart for others, reflecting the care that God has for us to other people; sharing their joys and sorrows. Pastoral Assistants need to be able to relate with sensitivity to people at various stages in life, those with varying degrees of Christian commitment and with those who are searching.  Effective Pastoral Assistants will be able to work with others and be part of the pastoral ministry of the church

Once trained, Pastoral Assistants, commissioned by the Bishop, minister in their local benefice.  The role is specific to each context, formed to meet local needs which might include being part of a pastoral visiting team, bereavement support, baptism preparation and more.  Effective and flourishing individuals and teams can really add value to the ministry within a parish/benefice. We are committed to supporting our parishes to enable others to grow. For details about the registration and training contact Ruth Cameron on 01452 835551 or ku.gr1728273449o.coi1728273449dsolg1728273449@nore1728273449macr1728273449 .

The course covers a wide breadth of pastoral care. It explains the theory of feelings, thought processes and responses. This is complimented with teaching best practice and the application of skills. Below is a brief description of the content of some of the sessions.

Session Two

Consider the difference body language makes.

Explore the dynamics of good conversation.

Practice good listening, discerning and remembering.

Start to become comfortable praying for others.

 

Session Four

Recognise the importance of lay visitors.

Be aware of all the different pastoral care already offered in our own parishes /benefices.

Consider the relevance for us of Jesus’ commands to the disciples around visiting.

Look objectively at making appointments.

 

Session Six

Consider the place of baptism in our own lives and those of our churches.

Become familiar with the significance and the themes of the baptism service.

Recognise the dissonance between what the church is offering and what people come expecting.

 

Session Ten

Consider our own attitudes to death and dying.

Explore the way that children and young people handle loss.

Think about ways to walk about death and dying.

Consider how to answer more impossible questions.

 

Session Twelve

Consider values around parenting and family life.

Recognise the complexity of new family units.