Pastoral Care
As an ordained minister I have the privilege, honor, and responsibility of journeying with people through their joys and sorrows.
The time I spend with people during times of celebration and sorrow are precious to me. In a congregational setting, pastoral care as a minister is most effective when partnered with lay pastoral and caring ministry and opportunities to build community. We are able to care best for each other when we’re all part of the process.
Our communities are strongest when we all take on the caring and relationship-building necessary for true support to thrive.
““Margaret, as a chaplain is a unique combination of both an uplifting, and calming, presence. She is able to help people find strength and sustenance in difficult circumstances, and yet can also be with them in the pain and raw grief of life’s devastation. She works well with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences, bringing an intelligent, compassionate, and creative presence to any interaction. Her patients and their families regularly spoke of her with fondness and gratitude.”
~Rev. Jakki Flanagan, Emergency Department Attending Chaplain, Yale-New Haven Hospital”
Sometimes, I connect with people for pastoral care during coffee hour following worship services on Sundays. Other times folx will seek me out during my community office hours, at a local coffee shop, in my office, or in their home. Life brings with it many challenges including new diagnoses, loss of pregnancy, recently empty nests, a new child, and the list goes on and on. I am honored to be invited into people's lives in this way, and consider it a great privilege to minister to them at these times in their lives.
I offer opportunities for both individual care, family care, and communal care. Often communal care happens in a worship service. For instance, I have held Quiet Christmas services during the winter holiday season. These services are designed for folks who are having a difficult time with the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, or are looking for a quiet and contemplative opportunity for reflection with others.
In my ministry, I have been involved in community pastoral care as well. I have offered the invocation and quilt blessing at the annual Rhode Island Religious Coalition for a Violence Free RI Memorial Vigil for those lost to gun violence. I have also offered blessings at health festivals, bike rides, community events and vigils, and more.
Care, compassion, healing, and empowerment are essential elements in pastoral care. I strive to provide them through my ministry with individuals, families, and communities.