Pastoral Care

Pastoral care is the ministry of care and counseling provided by pastors, chaplains, and other religious leaders to members of their congregation. This can range from informal home visits to formal counseling by ordained persons who are licensed to provide pastoral counseling.

Pastoral care can also be a term generally applied to the practice of looking after parishioners' personal and social well-being. It can respond to a variety of needs, including health, social and moral education, behavior management, and emotional support. It's not just the work of clergy: we all offer pastoral care to and with each other, through formal and informal programs and activities.

Here are just a few of the many pastoral care ministries at St. Thomas. For more information, contact any St. Thomas clergyperson or call the church office or send an email to office@stthomasmedina.org. All inquiries are handled with the appropriate level of confidentiality.

Loaves and Fishes

Lay ministers meet in a fellowship group to cook meals for parishioners coping with emergencies.

Stephen Ministry

Lay ministers are trained and commissioned listeners who offer confidential care to people who are grieving or in crisis.

Eucharistic Visitors

Lay Ministers take the sacrament to those who, for any reason, are unable to participate in public worship and communion for a time.

Spiritual Direction

A professionally trained religious advisor acts as a companion on one’s spiritual journey and helps individuals recognize God’s presence in their lives.

Prayer Group

Lay ministers pray daily for those in need and meet weekly for group prayers.

Counseling for Couples Preparing for Marriage and Holy Union

This is offered for couples exploring their commitment to each other and seeking the blessing and support of our faith community.

Short-Term Pastoral Counseling for Couples, Teens and Families

We offer compassionate support during times of crisis, transition, and stress. We are available to help those needing help by identifying coping strategies, spiritual resources and appropriate referrals.

Domestic Violence Information & Referral

We provide confidential assistance for those who feel unsafe due to violence in a partnership or household, or for those who seek such help on behalf of another.