Dear Ones,

Throughout my time with you, members have found creative and compassionate ways to care for one another. Caring News updates have moved you to drop off casseroles, send cards, offer rides, and text each other when one of you is experiencing a milestone or a twist and turn with life. Caring for each other is a joy and calling for all members, and this effort benefits from the leadership and organization of the Pastoral Care Associates.

The video that accompanies this email introduces the current Pastoral Care Associates: Trang Duong, Kristen Hunter, Bryan Pashigian, Wayne Nilsestuen, and Joni Sarles. Their explanation for what they do as Pastoral Care Associates and why they do it is warm and inspiring. Please take a listen and get to know them better.

As you prepare to flow into the future, you can take courage that you already know how to care for each other, and you already have capable lay leaders to assist you and your new Senior Leader in that work. Over the summer, if you have a pastoral concern or simply wish to speak to a peer listener about a change in your life, you can reach the volunteer team at pastoralcare@ethicalsociety.org. I have arranged to have clergy colleagues on standby over the summer in case of a critical pastoral emergency, and I also know that members are kind and energetic about caring for each other.

If you feel moved to personally take more leadership in this area, I hope you will speak to KC in the fall about joining the Pastoral Care Associates. You can also speak to Kristin Hunter about the new Caring Connections effort to send greeting cards to members who are going through a turning point or difficult time.

I would be remiss if I didn’t also take this opportunity to thank Beth Baker, who retired from the Pastoral Care Associates this year after fifteen years of service. Her thoughtfulness continues to leave a legacy on the team.

The WES Statement of Purpose includes a statement that you joyfully celebrate together and support each other through life. The Pastoral Care Associates are some of the people who lead you in fulfilling that purpose. Keep celebrating and supporting. Best wishes on your journey together.

Take care,

-Lyn