Description:
Position Summary:
The Pastoral Care Associate serves the parish’s evangelizing mission by accompanying and caring for homebound parishioners through the Ministry of Care, promoting mental health awareness in a way that honors the dignity of the human person, and organizing and facilitating bereavement groups rooted in Christian hope and compassion. This role also serves as a backup to the Funeral Coordinator, offering support to families during times of loss. The position requires experience, deep pastoral sensitivity, and a strong commitment to confidentiality.
Key Responsibilities:
Administrative & Operational Support for Ministry of Care
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Provide direct administrative support to Ministers of Care, including coordinating schedules, facilitating training, and maintaining regular communication with those serving in this ministry.
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Ensure the effective organization of the program, confirming that all ministers and homebound parishioners are properly accounted for and well-served.
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Prepare, organize, and maintain accurate lists of homebound parishioners, and ensure that Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion comply with Safe Environment requirements.
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Assist with special events, including parish missions and sacramental celebrations, as needed.
Mental Health Ministry
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Responsible for scheduling, promoting, and facilitating the following:
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Ongoing six-week bereavement support group sessions throughout the year
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Biannual parish-wide mental health education opportunities
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Maintain and manage a resource library accessible to individuals seeking support.
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Develop and share faith-informed communications, including infographics, that promote mental wellness, mindful living, and holistic well-being rooted in Christ-centered values.
Requirements:
Qualifications:
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A practicing Catholic in good standing with the Church, committed to living out the faith and upholding the teachings of the Catholic Church.
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Compassionate heart and the ability to listen.
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Strong organizational and administrative skills with high attention to detail.
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Proficiency in office software and database management is important.
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
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Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively.
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Familiarity with Catholic liturgy, sacramental practices, and parish life preferred.
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Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
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Collaborative mindset with a willingness to support parish missions and ministries.
Work Environment:
Busy Parish office setting. Normal working hours Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. Evening and weekend availability will be necessary to support parish programs, bereavement group, ministry needs, and parish wide liturgical events.
