Lay Ministry
Lay Ministers are gifted men and women from many different faith communities in the metroplitan area. They are trained by The Department of Spiritual Care and work in concert with professional chaplains to provide care to patients and families. They also support the patient's unique spiriutal or religious outlook, assist them as they cope with their hospitalization experiences, and make appropriate referrals.
Benefits of Lay Ministry
- Personal growth as you exercise your spiritual gifts
- Support and pastoral care from chaplains
- Training and continuing education
- Annual appreciation and recognition events
- 15% discounts at Methdost cafeterias, Market Place, Blue Water Cafe, and The Bistro
- Free Flu shots
- Free TB screening
- Paid Parking
Lay Ministry Training
Lay Ministry candidates will go through a 4 week initial training during the month of October. It begins on a Friday night with a gathering and sharing of call stories, followed by a worship service with Holy Communion. Saturday morning kicks off the first of four teaching modules led by chaplains in the Department of Spiritual Care. The remaining three modules take place on Thursday evenings through October. Candidates will also shadow staff chaplains as part of their training until they are comfortable making visits on thier own.
In addition to the initial training and acclamation to The Methodist Hospital, The Department of Spiritual Care is committed to continuing education for our lay ministers. We offer a minimum of four seminars a year with a focus on pastoral skills, grief, diversity and self-care.
Lay Ministry Promotional Flyer
For more information, please contact Stacy Pell by email at SLpell@tmhs.org or by phone at 713-441-1985.
"No One Dies Alone" (NODA) seeks to ensure that dying patients, isolated from family and friends, can experience bedside presence in their final hours. This presence is provided by specially trained volunteers called "Compassionate Companions."
Catholic Chaplain Corps
Any Roman Catholic lay person interested in assisting with pastoral care of sick and dying RC patients, may call 713-747-8445 for additional information.
