Pastoral Care
at Central
We live our lives closely together. That’s why, when some members of our congregation have turmoil in their lives, they look to our Pastor for emotional and spirtual support.
Our Minister’s extensive experience enables her to provide prayerful, caring support to members and those close to them who are experiencing the familiar trials and changing circumstances of life such as illness, incapacitation, unemployment, parenting concerns, retirement, aging, divorce and bereavement. You will be listened to with understanding and not evaluation or judgment.
We Respect Your Privacy
Central United Church is committed to being a church that cares well for one another—through prayer, encouragement, and practical support—while also respecting personal privacy.
Pastoral Care Communication & Privacy Policy
Central United Church is committed to being a church that cares well for one another—through prayer, encouragement, and practical support—while also respecting personal privacy.
In keeping with Canadian and Ontario privacy principles, including Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) and the spirit of Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA), we only share pastoral care needs with the consent of the individual. Each person decides what, if anything, is shared, and this may range from specific requests to more general or anonymous ones.
Requests for Prayer, with permission, may be directed to the Confidential Prayer Chain at any time.
When information is shared, we do so carefully and respectfully, inviting prayer while honouring personal boundaries. When permission is not given, situations are kept fully confidential and supported through private pastoral care.
As a church family, we ask everyone to receive shared requests with compassion and to respect the trust and confidentiality involved.
Pastoral Care: There is a dedicated team of about 12 parishioners who visit elderly members who can no longer attend worship. Under the leadership of the Minister, the team keeps them connected with the church with fellowship and prayer.
Prayer Chain: Prayer concerns are brought in confidence to this team. The group prays for specific concerns and follows up regularly to be aware of changes and to give thanks.
Prayer Shawl Ministry: Loving hands knit or crochet wraps that can bring comfort and warmth to the bereaved or those recovering from illness. The shawls are blessed during a worship service before they are presented.
“Sentiments”: is a greeting card ministry. Cards are sent for significant birthdays and anniversaries and other special occasions such as Baptism and Confirmation.
Blessing Blankets: are small knitted or crocheted blankets that are also blessed in a worship service and given to children and adults who are Baptized at Central United Church.