The Caring Ministry of OCUUC was established to provide a network of support for individual and community well-being in times of illness, and to nurture the health of body, mind, and spirit.
We have structured ourselves in three parts: the Helping Hands, the Pastoral Care Associates, and the Congregation Nurse.
Helping Hands
The Helping Hands are volunteers who provide short-term assistance to members and friends who are ill, recovering from surgery or hospitalization, or need emotional support for an upcoming medical procedure. A number of them assist with staffing the Caring Ministry Table which is on the patio Sunday mornings. OCUUC has some durable medical equipment for loan as well.
Pastoral Care Associates
The Pastoral Care Associates are volunteers who are trained and commissioned to augment the pastoral work of the minister. They offer "companioning" by listening, walking alongside, being present, without judgment or advice; when individuals and families experience serious illness, personal loss, significant life transitions, spiritual or emotional distress.
For more information contact the minister or Marilyn Giss, nurse@ocuuc.org
Congregation Nurse
The Congregation Nurse provides blood pressure screenings throughout the year, flu vaccine clinics in the fall, health education and other services, resources and referrals. With the help of volunteers, she organizes CPR and First Aid certification classes- plus training for the use of our AED. She serves as a patient advocate, helping to interpret medical advice and medication issues.
The Caring Ministry welcomes new ideas and new volunteers on all levels! Contact us for more details!