The term "pastoral care" is more than it sounds. It's not just the clergy looking after the needs of the parish community but the entire community looking out for each other especially in times of personal or family need. Saint Paul reminds us that we are to rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep (Romans 12.15). Pastoral care is taking St. Paul's words and putting them into action by being present with and visiting those who are ill, in trouble, in grief or just need a little reminder that they are loved and not alone. It may or may not include the administration of a Sacrament such as the Eucharist or Anointing. It can occur in a hospital or the home or over coffee or a meal. It's a time when one Christian is lovingly present to another when the chips are down. The Pastoral Care minister, whether ordained or lay, doesn't "fix" anything but rather goes deeper and to a more profound place where the one on the receiving end knows that someone hears his/her pain and is more than willing to walk with her/him until the pain recedes.
Pastoral Care ministers are also available to bring you the Eucharist and administer the Sacrament of Anointing in your home if you aren't well and haven't been able to get to Church.
If you are in need of pastoral care, please contact the Parish Office at 206-324-3072 or the Rector, Father Kevin Smith at 206-390-2049 or Phathyr@gmail.com. Remember, we're here for each other.