In our parish communities — St. Mary’s, St. John Bosco, and St. Edward’s — pastoral care is the Church’s ordinary way of walking with people through life.
It is not limited to emergencies or special situations.
Pastoral care is simply the Church being present, listening, praying, and accompanying people with patience and faith.
What Pastoral Care Is
Walking with people
Pastoral care means offering support to people at every stage of life, including times of:
- illness or frailty
- grief and bereavement
- anxiety or distress
- major life decisions
- spiritual struggle or questioning
- returning to the faith after time away
It is grounded in prayer, the sacraments, and the Church’s confidence that God is at work even in difficulty.
Not counselling or therapy
Pastoral care is not a replacement for professional medical or psychological support.
Instead, it offers:
- spiritual accompaniment
- prayer and sacramental support
- listening rooted in faith
- guidance shaped by the teaching of the Church
Where appropriate, people may also be encouraged to seek professional help alongside pastoral support.
How the Parish Offers Pastoral Care
Pastoral care in the parish may include:
- visiting the sick or housebound
- support for those in hospital or care homes
- accompaniment in times of grief
- prayer and conversation during personal difficulty
- guidance in complex life situations
- support for those returning to the practice of the faith
Care is always offered personally and discreetly, never as a programme or obligation.
Asking for Pastoral Care
Many people hesitate to ask for help because they feel they are a burden or “not ill enough”.
Please be assured: asking for pastoral care is always appropriate.
You do not need to be in crisis.
You do not need the right words.
If you are struggling, uncertain, or simply need prayer and conversation, you are welcome to ask.
Confidentiality and Respect
Pastoral conversations are treated with care, discretion, and respect.
Where safeguarding or serious risk is involved, appropriate steps are taken to protect all concerned, in line with Church and diocesan guidance.
Pastoral Care and the Sacraments
Pastoral care is often accompanied by the sacraments, especially:
- Reconciliation
- Anointing of the Sick
- Holy Communion
These sacraments bring grace, strength, and peace, and are offered whenever appropriate.
If You Would Like Pastoral Support
If you are:
- struggling or anxious
- caring for someone who is unwell
- grieving a loss
- unsure how to move forward
- returning to faith after time away
You are very welcome to make contact.
Pastoral care begins with listening, not solutions.
Where: St Mary’s, St John Bosco, or St Edward’s
Contact: Fr John — frowens@pm.me
“Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden,
and I will give you rest.”
(Matthew 11:28)
That promise lies at the heart of pastoral care.
St. Mary's, St. John Bosco and St. Edward's 