Pastoral Care

Pastoral Care is a ministry of compassionate presence in imitation of Jesus' care of people, especially those who are hurting and in need.  This Ministry offers listening and silent solace to those in the hospital which is approved with the hospital staff.

Those interested in  Pastoral Care attended classes over 6 months given by Father Paige Polk, OFM. This first class of 20 students may be serving Houston hospitals through their parishes today.

PASTORAL CARE IN ACTION
One day a week each minister reports to the Chaplain's Office of the Northwest Memorial Herman Hospital where John Champagne, Chaplain Director, has prepared a list of Catholics on each floor. Each minister checks "in" at the nurse's station of their floor to inquire if that person wants a brief visit on their assigned day.  Some visits last 5 minutes some longer depending on the patient. 

There is no agenda for the visit, therefore it is non-threatening. 95% of patients are Spanish speaking so praying a prayer with the family together is a good practice.

After your visit, go back to the Chaplain's Office and write up a report of relative facts or a summary of your feelings about the visit.  This is only meant to be a constructive aid for the nursing staff.

"Through Your Continuous Assistance, O God,
I will strive to give myself in service but never impose myself upon those I visit.

Finally, Lord, make me conscious of how it is I who will be visited by You
as I enter into the sacred circles of sickness, loneliness and old age. Amen"