The St. James’ Community of Hope is a group of trained lay pastoral caregivers who minister to those in need both within the church family and in the wider community through the spiritual art of compassionate listening and prayer. On Sunday, January 12, we will commission two new lay chaplains, Elizabeth Smith (at 10:15) and Cindy Kohler (at 5:30), and we will celebrate the completion of their fall 2019 training. Alongside Elizabeth and Cindy, we will pray for the rest of our Community of Hope lay chaplains.
Community of Hope lay chaplains play a key role in St. James’ ministry of Pastoral Care. They work alongside clergy and lay eucharistic visitors to visit the homebound, work with neighbors in struggle, and provide emergency pastoral care. In order to grow in their own spiritual wellness, they commit to participation in ongoing training, monthly meetings, and a practice of Benedictine spirituality.
Please join us on January 12 as we commission Elizabeth and Cindy for this important work in the community. If you are interested in exploring a call to this ministry, contact The Rev. Eileen O’Brien at rector@stjamesaustin.org.
