Pastoral Care
As a faith community we strive to provide caring and support for those experiencing difficult times in their lives.
Our called ministers and intern ministers are available for pastoral support to members in need. The ministers often work in partnership with the lay ministers to offer care. In addition, ministers are available to officiate at rites of passage including memorial services and weddings. To contact a minister, call the church office at 503-228-6389 or send a message to the church office. To make an appointment with Rev. Alison directly, sign up through her Calendly.
If you would like to have an prayer intention held by our ministers and lay ministers you can send a message to prayer@firstunitarianportland.org.
Lay Ministry
In addition to our called ministers, we have a team of volunteer Lay Ministers who offer support through difficult times. Lay Ministers are church members who offer one-to-one caring and support to folks in times of need, including:
- spiritual crisis
- major life changes, such as the loss of a loved one, loss of employment, divorce or retirement
- isolation because of age, mobility problems, or for other reasons
- health problems, illness or hospitalization
- other personal life changes
Lay Ministers support the pastoral work of the ministerial staff, are present with members during times of need, and help build a stronger church community through outreach to congregants and through support groups. Lay Ministers are not intended to replace the role of our church ministers or professional counselors.
To contact a Lay Minister, you may call the church office at 503-228-6389 or send a message to the church office. Generally, you may expect a telephone call from a Lay Minister within 24 hours.
Learn more about our Lay Ministry program here.
Parish Concern Announcements
If you would like to have a concern included in the parish concerns part of the worship service on Sundays, please send a message to parishconcerns@firstunitarianportland.org.
You can view the most recent Joys and Sorrows in our Front Steps e-news.