In the words of Quaker and author Parker Palmer, “the human soul does not want to be fixed, it simply wants to be seen and heard.”

Who Are the Pastoral Care Team (PCT) Members?

PCT Members are specially trained members of our church who provide a non-anxious presence in the midst of whatever challenge the church member is going through…a safe place to feel and express their feelings. These volunteers serve in the spirit of UU Values. Those Values are: interdependence, pluralism, justice, transformation, generosity and equity…with LOVE at the center. The work of the Pastoral Care Team is always kept in the strictest of confidence.

What Do Pastoral Care Team Members Do?

A PCT member will do the following when requested:

• Visit the ill at home or in the hospital
• Support those going through a life crisis or transition.
• Maintain contact with those unable to attend church due to illness or disability.
• Support friends or family involved in care-giving.
• Comfort the bereaved.
• Facilitate group meetings on relevant topics, such as Grief Support
• Convey information regarding community resources.
  In addition, BBUUC also has a very active Caring Committee which provides logistical and practical support to our church community.

The Role of a Pastoral Care Team Member

• The role of a PCT member is to be a listening and supportive presence to all in our church and assist them as they navigate challenges in their lives.
• A PCT Member may also act as a referral source and advocate when the needed services are beyond the scope and ability of the Pastoral Care ministry.
• BBUUC is fortunate to have a PCT member with a special area of expertise. Elizabeth DeCoux is a Certified Animal Care Chaplain and her role it is provide support to members and the animals they love. This includes grief support, attendance at euthanasia, blessings for recently adopted animals, and conduct an annual Blessing of the Animals. You may contact her at animalchaplain@bbuuc.org

How Do I Contact a PCT Member?

You can request the services of the Pastoral Care program by contacting the Chaplain, a PCT Member or church Office.  The Chaplain will make assignments for PCT contacts.  At all times, PCT Members maintain clergy standards of confidentiality. There is no fee for these services.

PCT members can be identified by the orange name tag they wear on Sundays. You can also email Chaplain@BBUUC.org, or call the church office and leaving a message
at 904-276-3739 which will be forwarded to the Chaplain. Look for the PCT members at BBUUC: they will be the folks with the orange name tags near their hearts for all to see.

In faith and gratitude,
Donna Zimmerman
Chaplain