'I came that they might have life, and have it to the full' (words of Jesus, from John 10:10). The pastoral care offered by the teams at St Nicolas is about showing Christian love to people in our community by listening to and befriending them at significant times in their lives, regardless of their beliefs or unbelief. The various groups offering pastoral care and the work they do are set out below. BAPTISM TEAMWe organise preparation classes to extend a welcome and introduction to St Nicolas Church for all those requesting Baptism for their children. Courses are held in the home of one of the participants or the course leader and give an opportunity to ask questions and get to know the other couples. Following the Baptism Service we offer to continue the contact with the parents via a 'link' member of the congregation. Participants are also encouraged to contact the course leader at any point throughout the course, or in the future, with any questions they may have. BEREAVEMENT TEAMFollowing funerals at St Nicolas Church and those taken by the St Nicolas clergy elsewhere, we offer support to the next of kin and families. We visit the bereaved a few weeks after the funeral, then at intervals for about two years. We will also visit any member of the congregation or parish who is in need of support following bereavement and we arrange an annual service of remembrance and thanksgiving for loved ones who have died. MARRIAGE TEAMOur aim is to promote marriage and to support married couples in our church community, both among members of St Nicolas Church and those who come to St Nicolas to be married. We assist at the twice-yearly Marriage Preparation Days, we organise the Marriage Course and we plan a Renewal of Vows service every few years. Books and videos on marriage guidance and enrichment are available to borrow from the Resource Library. Although we do not provide counselling ourselves we can direct couples to find the help they need. PRAYER SUPPORT TEAMOur role is to pray with people at the main 9.15 am, 11.00 am and 6.30 pm services and at other times if required. Services with a focus on 'Prayer for Healing and Wholeness' take place at regular intervals. ST NICOLAS FELLOWSHIPThis is a group of older people who meet on the 4th Monday of each month at 2.30 pm in the Church Hall. There is usually a talk on some topic of interest, followed by a time of chatting over a cup of tea. Sometimes we go out for an excursion. It is a friendly group and we pray for each other and keep in touch with those who are unable to attend for any reason. VISITING TEAMWe care for people who can no longer get to services at the church. We want to ensure that these people continue to feel part of the St Nicolas Church family. The aim is to link just one member of the Team with a housebound individual so that a friendship is formed. The format of the friendship depends on the two individuals involved. Quite often it will be occasional visits for a good talk and a measure of Christian caring, but it may involve a prayer together or even the study of a short Bible passage together. A link through the Visiting Team should also ensure that needs, such as the taking of Holy Communion, are met. So if you think you would welcome a visit, or know someone who would like a visit, including hospital visiting, please do make contact through the church office. WELCOMERSIn addition to greeting you at the door, our Welcomers (identified by their badges) can answer questions, give directions, take you to a seat and introduce you to someone. They will accompany you to coffee if you would like that and tell you what is going on if you have a particular interest in any activity. There is normally a member of the team on duty in the hall during coffee on Sunday mornings.
PURSE - PERSONAL FINANCE SUPPORT TEAMPurse is a small team of suitably experienced people with both financial and pastoral skills. We offer confidential support in handling personal finances, including difficulties relating to employment/unemployment, loss of income, debt repayments or housing. For legal reasons, Purse team members may not provide financial advice to the individuals concerned, but they will explain where and how to obtain it. They will also provide support in weighing up options, making decisions and following through whatever actions may be required.
If you think that any of these groups could offer you some support, the best way to make contact is through the Pastoral Coordinator, Sue Elliott, at the Church Office, St Nicolas Church Hall, West Mills, Newbury, RG14 5HG (telephone: 01635 529783, email: selliott@st-nicolas-newbury.org). The care offered by St Nicolas' pastoral teams is within the context of ethical guidelines (click here for details) and underpinned by appropriate training and support. Queries or comments are welcome. | 