"Spiritual Listeners"

Pastoral Care Associates are members of the Unitarian Universalist Church in Eugene who visit members of our community if they are experiencing illness, a loss, are hospitalized, in nursing homes or unable to attend church regularly. 

The Pastoral Care Associate visits not as a professional counselor or a social worker, but as a spiritual listener.  She or he is there to listen with compassion, and to remain a calm, abiding and non-judgmental presence.

Pastoral Care Associates will make referrals, including to the minister, as appropriate.  They will also coordinate closely with the Care Committee which provides members with assistance in practical, short term matters such as rides or home-cooked meals.

Members volunteering for the Pastoral Care Associates and the Care Committee have a background check and agree to keep all sensitive information confidential.

With the minister, ongoing sessions are scheduled where information regarding the needs of the congregation can be shared.  Monthly gatherings include an opportunity to learn skills pertaining to effective pastoral care.