Pastoral Care Team - Operating Procedures and Guidelines
A Pastoral Care Team for parishioners home visitations has been approved by Parish Council. The Wardens and Rector selected the initial team membership with their consent, but new members will be added from time to time while some may discontinue their service. A team coordinator will be appointed to assist the Rector in organizing the services of the team.
Operating Procedures
1. The contact persons for those requesting a visit will be the coordinator or the Rector. They will decide who will do the visit – the Rector or two of the Pastoral Team.
2. The coordinator and/or the Rector may also identify parishioners needing a visit as well as who will complete the visit.
3. A signature log, kept in the desk top drawer of the vestry, should be signed prior to the visit as well on return with relevant comments.
4. Every visit should have two members, but no husband and wife teams are permitted.
5. Gifts should not be accepted
6. Sealed and signed envelopes with offerings may be accepted, but do not write out cheques for the parishioners.
Visiting Guidelines
1. Always arrange a visit in advance indicating the purpose of the visit, starting time and length of the visit.
2. Approach each elderly person with dignity and respect, do not prejudge their interests or abilities.
3. Be extra cautious of individuals who have held the church in very high regard because they are easy to influence.
4. Make another person aware of the visit and when you can be expected to return.
5. Visit in the most public place in the house.
6. Choose a seat a comfortable distance from the person being visited.
7. Stick to the purpose of the visit and do not attempt to influence the person unduly.
8. Never offer medical or financial advice.
9. Never engage in sexual impropriety including seductive speech or gestures.
10. Do not meet in a home where there is inappropriate behavior or a negative ambience.
11. Advise individuals who want to make a large contribution to the church to get legal or financial advice and consult their family.
12. Be aware that an elderly person’s hygiene and/or mental capacity may be declining and requires community assistance.
13. Report any concerns to the Rector and note it in the log book.