Caring Committee

At the heart of our church community is the love and care we provide for each other in times of difficulty and challenge. Helping a member of our community is the mission of the broader UUCA caring community.

When members in our church community experience loss or illness, we provide cards of sympathy and support for church members to sign on Sunday mornings.

You are the UUCA caring community.

Grief Support Group

We understand that grief comes in many forms and is a natural part of the human experience. In recognition of this, we are pleased to announce the establishment of a new Grief Support Group, a safe and compassionate space where individuals can find solace and support as they navigate their unique grief journeys. The group meets the third Wednesday of the month from 6-8 pm in the Church library.

Who is welcome: Anyone who is experiencing grief in any form is warmly invited to join us. Grief takes many shapes, including the loss of a loved one, the end of a significant relationship, job loss, illness, or other life-altering events. You are not alone, and we are here to support you.

Our Grief Support Group is sponsored by the Pastoral Associates, a dedicated group within our church community. The group will be facilitated by Angie Laakso, a church member and end-of-life doula with extensive training in end-of-life and grief studies. Angie’s compassionate and experienced guidance will help navigate feelings and find healing through connection with others.

Please feel free to bring your own coffee or beverage to make our meetings even cozier. Together, we will create an environment of understanding and empathy.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Angie at 330-603-5124 or email her at aslaakso@gmail.com.

We look forward to coming together as a community to support one another on this journey of healing and hope.

Pastoral Associates

Our Pastoral Care Associates constitute a dedicated ministerial program designed to extend a confidential and compassionate presence to church members seeking support. 

Pastoral Associates conduct visits at the church, via telephone, or Zoom, and in neutral settings such as homes or hospitals. This program aligns seamlessly with the Minister’s own pastoral care efforts, where Pastoral Associates play a vital role, reporting directly to both the Minister and the Chair of the Pastoral Associates.

By creating a nurturing and sacred space, our Pastoral Associates aim to establish a platform for congregants to express themselves and feel understood, offering support during times of pastoral crisis.

Our Pastoral Associates will also visit members who are hospitalized, residing in nursing homes or other forms of residential care, or who are homebound. They maintain contact with those unable to attend church through cards, telephone calls, and in-person visits, aiming to keep church members connected to the larger church community.

Instances to Seek Support from The Pastoral Associates:
● When facing health challenges, either personally or with a family member.
● During hospitalization of yourself, a family member, or a fellow church member.
● Amidst a life crisis, when in need of a supportive conversation.
● While experiencing significant milestones or joyous occasions that you wish to share.
● If you have concerns or questions regarding our UUCA community.
● If you are experiencing trauma that stems from the news, world relations, racism, ableism or other events.
● When in search of a compassionate listener for your thoughts and emotions.
● When life circumstances present challenges, and supportive dialogue is sought.
● If feelings of isolation have surfaced, and a reminder of available support is needed.
● When a recent professional change prompts the need for guidance and reflection.
● Simply desiring to engage in a meaningful conversation about various aspects of life.

*It’s important to note that the Pastoral Associates are not counselors and do not provide therapy. They, in no way, replace or supersede professional mental healthcare. Instead, they are available to actively listen, to hold space, and to ensure that our church community, both collectively and individually, feels connected, valued, loved, and heard. If you would like to contact a Pastoral Associate, please contact Angie Laakso by leaving a message with the Church Office or through confidential email pastoralassociates@uuakron.org