Caring for Each Other (PCAT)
The Pastoral Care Action Team (PCAT) provides caring support, both spiritual and practical, and opportunities for deeper connection and spiritual growth to all in the congregation, as we move together through the joys and challenges of life’s journey. In addition to developing and running programs throughout the year, PCAT also offers several on-going service and support groups.
Contact: pcat@follen.org.
PCAT supports and coordinates the activities of its subgroups as well as a number of support/affinity groups listed below.
Serving the Whole Congregation
Covenant Groups
Meet once a month in small groups to provide opportunities for spiritual reflection on various themes. Read more about covenant groups.
Lay Ministry
Our lay ministers assist the Minister in providing support to individuals who request the need for a caring person who can listen and respond with empathy and understanding.
Volunteer Services Network
Provides meals and rides to people in our Congregation who are in need. Read more about VSN or email VSN@Follen.org.
Affinity Groups
Men’s Group/Women’s Group
Weekly meetings on topics that help us know and be known by others more deeply. Learn more: Men’s Group, Women’s Group
Jewish Heritage Group
This group gathers several times throughout the year to share personal experiences, and to learn about and celebrate Jewish culture. It is open to anyone in the Follen community who wants to feel connected with Follen without leaving behind their Jewish identity, or who has become involved in Judaism through their partner or children, or who would simply like to learn more about the Jewish culture and traditions. New members are always welcome. For more information, or to be added to the distribution list for scheduled activities, please contact either Steph C. or Jim H. at jewishheritage@follen.
Parent Affinity Group
Parents with children ages 0–18 are invited to join. The goal of this group is to foster connections and conversation centered on topics that are timely to this current stage in life.
Support Groups
Child and Family Support Committee
Supports families with children and adults with special needs and mental health issues. CFSC page
Support Group for Those with Elderly Parents
Are you caring for, or concerned about, issues related to one or more elderly parents? We know how exhausting it can be. This group gathers once a month throughout the year, including the summer, to address the challenges of caring for elderly parents while also trying to take care of ourselves.
This confidential group has been meeting monthly for mutual support for over 10 years and is open to all members of the Follen community. New members are always welcome. For more information or to be added to the distribution list, please contact Steph C. at elderlyparents@follen.org.
Support Group for Those with Chronically Ill Partners
Meets once a month to address the challenges of caring for chronically ill partners. Contact Debbie B. at CHIPS@follen.org.
Remembrance Gatherings
Meets as needed during the church year to provide a ritual for members and friends in the congregation to remember a loved one and to share conversation with others.