Pastoral Care Ministries
Care Ministry
Blessed by the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and God of all encouragement, who encourages us in our very affliction, so that we may be able to encourage those who are in any affliction with the encouragement with which we ourselves are encouraged by God. ~ 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NAB
The Care Ministry assists bereaved family members in preparing the Mass of Christian Burial for their loved ones. A Care minister meets with family members, or a representative of the family, to assist in the selection of Scripture readings and music for the Mass of Christian Burial. The Care minister attends the wake and funeral, when possible. Care ministers can also provide referrals to other members of the community, services, or local programs to assist those who are grieving. Training is available!
For more information about how you can get involved, contact Fr. John Leonard, O.F.M. at 860-756-4034 ext. 129 or email him by clicking below.
Emmaus Ministry for Grieving Parents
Now that very day two of them were going to a village seven miles from Jerusalem called Emmaus, and they were conversing about all the things that had occurred. And it happened that while they were conversing and debating, Jesus himself drew near and walked with them, but their eyes were prevented from recognizing him. ~ Luke 24:13-16
The Emmaus Grieving Parents Ministry support parents whose spiritual journey includes the death of a child. We meet monthly in the Franciscan Center, please check the parish emails and the website calendar for meeting times. All who have suffered the loss of a child at any time – including prior to birth and many decades ago – are welcome.
Parish Nurse Ministry
They will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover. ~ Mark 16:18b NAB
Parish nursing services build on the strengths of individuals, families, and members of our faith community to care for and nurture one another in the light of our relationship with God.
Pastoral Care Outreach Ministry
For I was ill… and you cared for me. ~ Matthew 25:35-36
The parish Pastoral Care Outreach ministry offers holistic care in collaboration with the parish staff (friars, ministry coordinators, and parish nurses). Members of this team are responsible for visiting parishioners at home or in healthcare facilities (e.g., nursing homes).
Prayer Network
In the same way, the Spirit too comes to the aid of our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but the Spirit itself intercedes with inexpressible groanings. And the one who searches hearts knows what is the intention of the Spirit, because it intercedes for the holy ones according to God’s will. ~ Romans 8:26-27 NAB
The St. Patrick – St. Anthony Prayer network consists of approximately fifty parishioners who commit themselves to praying daily for those in need. Those who commit themselves to prayer set aside time each day to turn their thoughts and the deep expressions of their hearts to God on behalf of specific members of our parish community who have asked for prayers or for whom the Prayer Network has been asked to pray.
The Bereavement Ministry
The Bereavement Ministry promotes the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of all parishioners, especially those who are dealing with the loss of a loved one. Bereavement support for individuals and families is available. Initial inquiries can be made by calling the parish office or speaking with Fr. John, ofm. A nine-week ‘New Day’ Bereavement program is offered through this ministry.
‘New Life’ Program
The New Life program is offered by a team of trained facilitators who follow a curriculum offered by the Family Life Office. It includes using Divorce and Beyond as a guide for readings and discussions. The program is offered through bulletin announcements and meets for nine meetings.
Contact Fr. John at 860-756-4034 ext. 129 or email him for more information by clicking below.