Annual Pastoral Report

Belleville/Bay of Quinte Pastoral Charge

As a minister in All Seasons Church, I believe the pastoral care I offer meets a very important need in the lives of families whether it is for marriage, renewal of vows, anniversary celebrations, baptism/christening/child naming or funerals.

Some of the highlights from my ministry in the past year include receiving additional calls from family and friends I met at weddings.

These calls are to ask for Pastoral Care for funerals, baptisms, dedications and renewal of vow ceremonies. It is a privilege to minister to various family members and their friends. As with the preparation of Wedding Ceremonies, I make time to meet with family members, listening, learning and planning in order to meet their needs.

As an ‘outsider’ to most families at Marriage Ceremonies, I have become aware of and observed times of reconciliation and renewal when a birth parent of the bride or groom re-unites and reconciles with their now adult child. I have watched the glow and tears in eyes and on faces as a birth parent and/or stepparent work together for the common good of their daughter or son. This joining creates a loving positive atmosphere of celebration often bringing tears of joy to the participants.

I’m honoured when a get a call with words such as, “I’m (name’s) mother (aunt, uncle, cousin etc) and would you be available to conduct a funeral service for our grandma (grandpa, brother, sister etc)

Family celebrations for the baptism/christening/naming ceremony or a grandchild are festive, friendly and raise the spirit of all. It is an honour to minister in these ways and the opportunity to minister in a non-intrusive religious or not-particularly religious manner.

There have been times when my Pastoral Charge involves ministering with another Clergyperson or Elder of another faith community. I know the delight brides, grooms, parents and grandparents when they see my willingness to minister in this manner.

Other Pastoral opportunities included conducting church services at a Retirement Residence and participation in a local church and an ecumenical community choir.

Respectfully,


Lawrence E. Hurley

(Rev) Lawrence E. Hurley

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