Visiting Ministry

Pastoral Care

A ministry of compassion

Pastoral Care to the Sick and the Homebound is a ministry of compassion, a responsive desire to alleviate the suffering of another. As Catholics, we seek healing and strength in the Eucharist every week in mass. The ministry of Pastoral Care seeks to bring the Eucharist to those who cannot be with us for worship, whether temporarily or ongoing.

If you or someone you know is drawn to serve in this ministry, please contact Merry Reardon at (209) 612-1437 or merry.reardon@dsj.org

Here is the guideline from our Diocese:
1. All Pastoral Care Ministers must have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for at least 14 days (with booster preferably) with no underlying condition, or has no compromised immune system, and should have a prior consultation with their doctor if they can minister to the sick. This will protect you and the people you visit especially our beloved senior and our vulnerable children.

2. Complete the online Activity Waiver Form (click here).

3. Complete the Safe Environment requirements (VIRTUS training and clear the LiveScan background check). Please connect with Nellie Dominguez (nellie.dominguez@dsj.org) after you have notified Fr. Ritche of your interest in the ministry.

Pastoral Care

A ministry of compassion

Suffering is present for those who are isolated by illness, injury or the effects of aging. And when we are suffering, we may know we ought to pray, but we cannot seem to do it on our own. Ministers of Pastoral Care are called to be a compassionate presence in imitation of Jesus’ care of His people. The primary concern of the pastoral care minister is to show the sick how much Christ and his Church is concerned for them.

Long Term Care Ombudsman Program

Training to become a long term care ombudsman will begin again soon. An ombudsman is someone who is an advocate for people living in long term care such as skilled nursing facilities or residential care homes for the elderly. Ombudsmen are mandated by the federal Older Americans Act. There are several Holy Spirit parishioners who are currently ombudsmen and each indicates that it is a most rewarding endeavor. In Santa Clara County, the program is managed by Catholic Charities.

To determine if you might be interested, an orientation/overview of the program will be presented on Monday, January 29, 2018 from 10:00 a.m. to Noon at Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County located at 2625 Zanker Road, Suite 200, San Jose, CA 95134.

If you determine you are interested, the classes will begin on February 6 and will continue through March 8, 2018 with two classes per week. If you require further information, please contact Wanda Hale the Program Manager at 408-944-0567. If you would like to talk with any of the Holy Spirit parishioners who are ombudsmen, please contact Leah Harris at 408-997-5110.