Pastoral Associate Listening (PAL) Team

The PAL Team is designed to offer support by providing a listening ministry of presence to members and friends in need.

Q: Who are the members of the PAL Team?
A: Members of our congregation who have made a commitment of service to the members and friends of this church serve on the PAL Team. Look for the people wearing name tags with a navy blue ribbon saying “Ministry of Caring.”

Q: What is the role of a team member?
A: Their service is not to counsel or advise, not to fix or advocate. Their service is to listen and witness and care. Team members will also occasionally provide a referral if further supportive services are needed.

Q: How do the team members support the congregation?
A: Members and friends with chronic illness or limited mobility are invited to consider an ongoing relationship with a Team Member. The Team Member and person desiring support will develop a contact plan including at least one visit per month. We are committed to including those who can no longer participate actively in the life of the church in our circle of care.

Members and friends who are experiencing any kind of loss or grief are invited to consider a short term relationship with a Team Member which might include visits, companionship or prayer.

PAL Team members have received initial training, and supervision from our minister is ongoing. The PAL Team has committed to keep in confidence the names and personal information of the people they are visiting. The confidentiality agreement will be reviewed with participants at the first meeting with a team member.

If you are interested in receiving a visit from a member of the PAL Team please contact our minister.