Pastoral Ministry
The main
task of the Pastoral Minister is to assist the Pastor in caring for the
spiritual needs of the parishioners. St. Mary's membership includes a
large number of older individuals, and therefore much of the work of the
Pastoral Minister centers around this segment of the Parish.
LITURGICAL & SACRAMENTAL INVOLVEMENT
- Actively participate in Parish Liturgies as Lector, Eucharistic Minister, and leader of paraliturgical celebrations
- Celebrate Eucharistic Paraliturgy at the County Nursing Home
- Take Eucharist to shut-ins and encourage family members to do the same
- Arrange for two Communal Anointing celebrations annually
- Coordinate transportation network for rides to church
- Conduct wake services and give reflection at funeral liturgy when asked
- Arrange for Annual Memorial Service on or around All Soul's Day.
ELDERLY, SICK AND HOMEBOUND INVOLVEMENT
- Serve as a liaison between the Parish family and the sick in the hospital, nursing homes, or their own homes by visiting, providing a listening ear, praying with them, and leading them to the realization of the importance of their ministry to the total community
- Be present with and provide comfort and support to those who are grieving over the loss of a loved one, a change in health or physical surroundings, etc.
- Provide encouragement and support as persons move from one level of care to another;
- Offer follow-up opportunities to those who have experienced a loss through death, by continuing to visit them, put them in touch with bereavement groups offered through Hospice, Inc. and Hospice Haven, and the celebration of annual memorial services;
- Be available for counseling, and if additional help is needed, put individuals in touch with persons or agencies that can meet their needs
- Serve as spiritual director for the 50+ Club and lead them in days of recollection
- Serve as spiritual director for the Catholic Women's Club.
COMMUNITY AND COMMITTEE INVOLVEMENT
- Coordinate Pen Pal Program with school and older parishioners;
- Provide lists of names to upper grade students for service projects (leaf raking and Christmas gifts);
- Continue participation as board member on civic and community boards;
- Serve as staff liaison to the Outreach Committee of the Parish Council;
- Serve as staff liaison to the Funeral Dinner Committee.
SOCIAL JUSTICE INVOLVEMENT
- Be an advocate for those suffering injustice by assisting them to receive the aid they need to maintain their human dignity;
- Encourage participation in programs and volunteer organizations dealing with social justice issues.