UUCC’s Care Ministry provides presence, outreach, and practical response to members and friends over the Richmond area, especially during times of need. Three distinct but cooperative components comprise UUCC’s Care Ministry: a Care Committee, Neighborhood Groups, and a Lay Pastoral Associate Program. To help our church reach out in Love, Wonder, Connection—and care:

• Our minister provides pastoral care when needed.
  
• UUCC’s Care Committee provides care for members and friends who
  experience life’s joys and sorrows. Members of the committee rotate serving
  as Monthly Care Coordinators.
  
• UUCC assigns all members and friends by zip code to a Neighborhood Group. Neighborhood Group Coordinators help UUCC neighbors reach out to one another. These groups are important because our members live all around the greater Richmond, Virginia area.
  
• Lay Pastoral Associates extend the minister’s pastoral care presence and are
  available to listen and walk with members and friends in difficulty. Trained in
  compassionate listening, they represent a tangible connection to the church,
  supporting members going through a difficult time.
  
• The Care Committee coordinates a prayer shawl ministry of beautifully knitted,
  quilted, and crocheted shawls, wraps, and small (lap) blankets. Made by UUCC members or friends, these items comfort individuals experiencing serious illness, grief over the loss of a loved one, or other significant life challenges.
  
• UUCC children make chalices and artwork to express and share their care.
  

We need one another, and UUCC’s Care Ministry is built upon this understanding. Joys shared are multiplied; sorrows shared are lessened. When we are present with one another in worship, song, learning, and fellowship, we express care.