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Dear Siblings in Christ,

Happy Easter!

The Gospel of John tells us that Jesus asks Peter to "feed his sheep" three times in one of his resurrection appearances (John 21:15-17). One of the ways the church has interpreted Jesus's wish is as a call to be a community that cares for one another. This work of caring for each other is known as 'pastoral care', caring for each other in gratitude and in faith for the caring of our Good Shepherd, Jesus.

We are called to walk with each other in times of difficulty and sorrow, and to celebrate milestones in our lives with each other.  

Christ Church Cathedral has a number of pastoral teams, some of whom you see in the 10.30am worship service (the Healing Prayer Team). One of these teams have times you can meet with them to be prayed over one Sunday a month after the service (Healing Touch). One of these teams are sent from communion with blessed bread and wine to take to about 25 people in their homes or at the hospital. The priests and deacons (the clergy) at the Cathedral also go and visit people in the hospital and in their homes. 

Here are some reasons that someone might request pastoral care: 

- They are homebound - temporarily or on a more long-term basis; 
- They have had a baby and would like to have prayer and connection to the church; 
- They are experiencing spiritual crisis and would like prayer and spiritual accompaniment; 
- They are in hospital... 

Unfortunately, while gifted in many ways, none of these teams possesses the gift of telepathy! 

Here are some ways in which you can ask for pastoral care: 

- when you are at the hospital, make sure to indicate that you are an Anglican - that way the spiritual care team at the hospital will receive your name (for e.g. at VGH, the diocese has an Anglican chaplain who regularly keeps me updated on parishioners at the hospital, at Lion's Gate Rev. Juanita provides spiritual care);

- make a request by phone/email through the reception (reception@thecathedral.ca) or by email through pastoralcare@thecathedral.ca

- ask a clergy person after a service for an appointment. 

While we do our best, and have you in our hearts and prayers, we may not be able to answer right away. Please do not take this personally. We trust and know that God is with you always and everywhere. 

May God bless you this Easter with renewed faith in the promise of new life, 

Your sister in Christ, 

Areeta+