‘Called to Care’ a 4-week Pastoral Care Course

At the beginning of 2026, pastoral care teams from Thomas Risley and Peasley Cross came together to pilot Called to Care—a new four‑week course designed to strengthen the foundations of pastoral ministry.

The heart of the course is simple: back to basics, building confidence, and equipping people to care well. Each session blends practical tools with space for reflection, conversation, and encouragement. Participants explored what it means to listen deeply, respond with compassion, and support others in ways that honour both scripture and everyday reality.

Feedback from the pilot has been wonderfully affirming. One participant shared:

“A very useful four weeks providing a refresher of what you'd learned previously and also learning some new ideas listening to other people's input.”

Another highlighted the balance at the core of the course:

“A good mix of scripture and practical application – the facilitator explained things well and gave people time to express themselves.”

Called to Care aims to empower ordinary Christians to offer extraordinary kindness—rooted in God’s love, strengthened by shared learning, and lived out in the life of the church.

The pilot has opened the door for future groups, and we’re excited to see how the course continues to encourage, equip, and release people into compassionate service.

Contact Emma: trainingofficer@urcmerseysynod.org.uk for more detail or if you would like help running the course in your church.