Rev. Newton Cowan, Associate Pastor for Pastoral Care
I recently discovered that my name tag says Associate Pastor for Pastor Care. Apparently “al” would not fit.
As many of you are aware, we have had a fair number of funerals over the past few weeks. Each one matters, each family and everyone who walks into the chapel and sanctuary to welcome and show hospitality. I feel like we provide the love and care that we are called to do. And I want to thank all the many staff and volunteers who step up to make all this possible.
Pastoral Care extends well beyond funerals. We are here to be a resource for you and your family. We have established (there was one many years ago) a mental health ministry team to address the growing issues among adults and particularly youth and children. We want to be a resource for you all, for the congregation and community.
The 4th quarter series helps navigate making plans for your life now and what matters. Putting the right plans in place allows for peace of mind that wishes can be followed. This series is open to anyone, and I would encourage those who have older adult parents to come as well, this series can help you help your parents.
Beyond the funerals, and the various ministry teams and programs, Pastoral Care is about journeying with individuals and families. We are here to listen, to offer support and encouragement, to be a pastoral presence at all times of life.
The message that I would like to convey today is that if you feel disconnected from the church, for whatever reason, we are here for you. I have heard folks say, well it’s been a while, not sure if anyone would know me so I should not let the church know about a life event. Please know this, that we are your church, we are here to support you, in so many ways. We are here to pray for you and journey with you.
My favorite “new creed” is: You are known, you are loved and your life matters. Life can be hard enough on its own, you don’t have to do it alone.
You can reach Newton here.
