PASTORAL CARE
We recognise that great pastoral care is a hallmark of a great church and we want to develop the highest quality of pastoral care that we can.
We define pastoral care as:
The provision of spiritual, emotional, physical and practical support, irrespective of decisions taken by those for whom we are caring.
Pastoral care therefore does not involve judgement. It's primary role is one of support. If an individual takes a decision with which we do not agree, we do not stop caring for them. This pastoral care network of the church extends to the church, the community and the work place. Our goal is that no one is missed and that everyone receives an appropriate level of care. No one should be left without a person to whom they can turn in times of pastoral need.
We define pastoral care as:
The provision of spiritual, emotional, physical and practical support, irrespective of decisions taken by those for whom we are caring.
Pastoral care therefore does not involve judgement. It's primary role is one of support. If an individual takes a decision with which we do not agree, we do not stop caring for them. This pastoral care network of the church extends to the church, the community and the work place. Our goal is that no one is missed and that everyone receives an appropriate level of care. No one should be left without a person to whom they can turn in times of pastoral need.
The Pastoral Care Network at Lancaster Baptist Church
As part of our care for one another we operate a pastoral care network. This network is co-ordinated by the Pastoral Care Ministry Leader and includes a team of people who share in pastoral care. The aim is that everyone who is part of our church and wider church family is connected to the pastoral care network in some way. The team is under the care of the minister.
As part of our care for one another we operate a pastoral care network. This network is co-ordinated by the Pastoral Care Ministry Leader and includes a team of people who share in pastoral care. The aim is that everyone who is part of our church and wider church family is connected to the pastoral care network in some way. The team is under the care of the minister.
Where a person is a member of a Connect group the pastoral care will usually operate through that Connect Group, either by the leaders or by others who take on pastoral care responsibilities within the group. Where a person is not a member of a Connect Group, they will informally be linked to a group as a first point of contact. This typically takes the form of recognising when a person is absent from church and taking responsibly for following up and informing the pastoral care team of any needs or concerns.
We are aware that a great deal of informal care and help is given outside the network. All caring relationships serve to enrich relationships and to show Christ's love in different ways. Our pastoral care network supplements the pastoral care work of the minister. If anyone at any time wishes to talk to, meet, or have help from the minister or anyone in the leadership team, then all they have to do is ask. Similarly the minister and leadership team will be glad to receive information about people who are ill, in hospital or otherwise in need of help, encouragement or a visit.