Pastoral Care Training for Laity (Nov 13, 14, 21)

This 14-hour formation program prepares parish volunteers to offer compassionate, faith-centred pastoral care to parishioners who are homebound, vulnerable, elderly, seriously ill, dying, or living in care settings. Participants develop practical skills in listening, prayer, boundaries, referral, and responsible collaboration with parish clergy and ministry leaders.

Program Benefits

• Formation in a distinctly Catholic approach to caring for vulnerable parishioners.
• Safe-environment awareness, boundaries, accountability, confidentiality, listening, prayer, Scripture, accompaniment, and clergy referral.
• Confidence in bringing Holy Communion reverently and supporting end-of-life pastoral care.
• Practical tools, shared expectations, and a certificate of completion subject to Archdiocesan requirements.

Program Details

• Dates and times:
  • Nov 13, 2026: 7pm  – 9pm
  • Nov 14, 2026: 9am – 4pm
  • Nov 21, 2026: 9am – 4pm
• Location: Holy Redeemer Parish, 44 Rothesay Dr, Kanata, ON K2L 2X1
• Registration Fee: $150.00
  • Payable before program begins. Includes program materials/templates & lunches

Important Information

• Advance registration required (walk-ins not accepted)
• Registrants are encouraged to attend the full 14-hour program
• Pastoral approval is required prior to registration

Click here to register online.

SESSIONS

Session 1: Pastoral Care: A Catholic Model (Nov 13)

Friday evening, 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. A two-hour introduction to pastoral care through a distinctly Catholic model.

Session 2: Serving the Vulnerable / All About the Visits (Nov 14)

First Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., including lunch. Practical and pastoral preparation for safe, prayerful visits.

Session 3: The Eucharist/Getting Started (Nov 21)

Second Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., including lunch. Eucharistic reverence, pastoral practice, and ministry tools.

FAQ

How does this training differ from other pastoral care programs?

It is designed specifically to form lay Catholics for parish pastoral care ministry and is grounded in Catholic teaching and resources.

Do I need previous pastoral care experience?

No. There are no prerequisite programs or previous pastoral care experience requirements

Who may register?

Pastoral care volunteers, coordinators, and others involved in parish pastoral care ministry may register with pastor approval.

Does it address long-term care and seniors residences?

Yes. The program includes visits in private homes, long-term care residences, seniors residences, and group settings.