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Pastoral Care / Counseling
Pastoral care at St. Bart's can best be experienced by becoming involved in a long-term, committed way to one of the many small groups listed throughout the pages of this directory.
Whether one participates in an ongoing Bible Study, Fellowship Group, or Home Group, these small communities within our wider church have the powerful effect of becoming one's most immediate and life-giving source of pastoral support. Through prayer, study, sharing one's life experiences, and getting involved in ministry together over time, small groups naturally personify Paul's exhortation to the Galatians to "bear one another's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."
In addition to this ongoing life of healthful mutual care in community, there are times when particular needs arise which call for a sacramental or another particular response. Some of these occasions are addressed through the following ministries.
Prayer List
From time to time a particular prayer is needed for oneself or others. St. Bart's maintains a continuous prayer list at weekday and Sunday services. Send your request to prayers@stbarts.org, or leave a voice message on our Verger/Worship office line at 212-378-0204.
Prayer Team
St. Bartholomew's has a strong commitment to the power of healing prayer. One way we express that commitment is by making members of the Prayer Team available at the Prayer Desks during the Sunday 9 a.m., 11 a.m., and 7 p.m. services of Holy Communion. Anyone who comes to the prayer desks receives prayer through the ancient tradition of laying on of hands. The team is made up of trained parishioners and clergy, committed to healing prayer with individuals, praying for any needs and concerns. Following Jesus' example and command to pray, in the sight of God and the congregation, the intercessors listen and pray without question or judgement. Confidentiality is strictly enforced among all who serve in this ministry.
Off-site Pastoral Visits
Communion for the sick or home-bound as well as pastoral visits to the hospital can be arranged with any of the clergy. Contact the Rev. Bruce W. Forbes at 212-378-0210 or forbes@stbarts.org.
After Hours Pastoral Emergencies
A member of the clergy can be reached after hours by calling the switchboard, 212-378-0200, through which you will be connected to the clergy on call, or dialing 212-378-0250.
Praying Through Grief and Loss
St. Bart's is committed to supporting people through times of grief and loss. "Praying through Grief and Loss" is a prayer group that provides time and space to share the reality of grief with others, in a safe and nurturing environment. Through prayer, quiet song and reading from the Psalms, we acknowledge our vulnerability before God and allow ourselves to be touched by grace. This prayer group is led by members of the clergy and St. Bart's Healing Prayer Team, and meets two to three times a year, in four-week cycles.
Funerals
A death in the family can be reported to any of the clergy, using the pastoral emergency phone if necessary (212-378-0250). Clergy will assist with funeral/memorial plans and can recommend the services of an undertaker. Clergy can be reached during weekday business hours by calling the main switchboard at 212-378-0200.
Psychotherapy and Spirituality Institute
The Psychotherapy and Spirituality Institute (PSI) at St. Bartholomew's is part of a wider network with locations in seven New York City churches. It offers services in the disciplines of pastoral psychotherapy, clinical social work, and psychological counseling to individuals, couples, and families. The Institute offers a safe, confidential place to explore blocks to growth and satisfying relationships. Our staff consists of highly trained professionals who are respectful of diverse spiritual values. For more information, please call the Rev. Alan Chisholm at 212-378-0214 or the main office, 212-935-5023, or visit them online at www.mindspirit.org.
For information on any of the above ministries, email the Rev. Lynn Sanders, Associate for Pastoral Care or call her at 212-378-0245 -- or any of the other clergy staff for sacramental rites. As always, general questions can be directed to St. Bart's Central, 212-278-0222 or central@stbarts.org. |
