The Pastoral Care team consists of Sue Clarke, Johan Allen, Sue Allen, Joan Botterill, John Farebrother, Val Hart,Dave Ingram, Femi Nzegwu, Neils Ribeiro, Winnie Smikle.
AIMS FOR 2009-2010
1. To continue to promote the concept of ‘pastoral care for everyone by everyone’.
2. To monitor the pastoral needs of St James’ and how those needs are being met through a process of monthly review meetings
3. To continue to provide events to support pastoral care such as the Men’s events
4. To coordinate the transport of those with mobility difficulties to services and other church events
5. To meet the needs identified in pastoral survey
6. To develop policies and procedures for the care of vulnerable persons
Promote ‘pastoral care for everyone by everyone’
A significant number of the St James’ congregation are involved in informal pastoral care of church members in need. This is acknowledged and valued.
Home groups and other mid week groups remain a key focus for pastoral care. It is important that the topic is re-visited regularly to inform new members of the church and remind existing members of the importance of caring for one another.
Monitoring Meetings
The Pastoral Team meets monthly to review the pastoral needs of the church and confirm how needs are being met. A bi-monthly meeting overviews the programme of pastoral care development and identifies training needs.
It is hoped to run a second bereavement course in 2010.
Pastoral Events
The Men’s’ Events are now established and have 10-15 attending. Activities include social and spiritual content.
Events for Ladies’/Girls’ are also proving very popular with 80+ attending. Whilst these are predominantly social in nature, they provide an opportunity for a night out for those who might otherwise not go out.
Transport Provision
With increasing needs for transport to church and church events, a rota has been formalised to ensure those requiring lifts can be helped.
New drivers are always needed to help with this important service.
Meeting needs identified in pastoral survey
Whilst the pastoral survey of 2008-2009 was generally positive in terms of the perception of pastoral care within the church, singles were identified as a specific group who felt less satisfied.
The Men’s group is open to both married and single men.
More frequent ‘Welcome Wine and Cheese’ events had been proposed but have not required in 2009-2010. A Church Information Leaflet for newcomers is available together a visitors card for the pews.
It is proposed to use the names in the Church Directory to develop community groupings based on postcodes of church members to encourage and facilitate pastoral care at a local level. This is a work in progress.
Policies and Procedures for Care of Vulnerable Persons
Draft Policies and Procedures have been prepared and presented to the PCC during 2009-2010.