We believe that care is more than physical support. It is about being fully present, listening with compassion, and walking alongside people through every stage of life.
Pastoral and spiritual care is compassionate support for the whole person. It nurtures meaning, purpose, connection, and wellbeing at every stage of life, whatever a person’s beliefs.
This care reflects our vision of compassion and respect for the dignity of every person, including residents, families, and staff. We recognise that everyone brings unique life experiences and understandings of spirituality, which we view as the way we seek and express meaning and purpose and experience connection to the moment, to God, to ourselves, to others, and to the world. It is an essential part of faith, but not limited to it.
We are led by an experienced team who have completed specialised training in pastoral care, grief support, and end-of-life care. As part of Meaningful Ageing Australia and Catholic Health Australia, we follow best practice guidelines and maintain the highest standards of care.
Our services and dedication have been recognised with several awards, reflecting our commitment to supporting residents, families, volunteers, and staff with compassion, respect, and excellence.
Our pastoral and spiritual care supports residents, families, volunteers, and staff through life’s milestones and everyday moments.
Confidential one-on-one support for emotional, spiritual, and cultural wellbeing.
Arranging services and ceremonies, including memorials and observances.
Guidance during transitions, grief, or palliative care.
Coordination of visits from ministers of different religious denominations.
Facilitating programs and activities to support spiritual and emotional wellbeing.
Training and induction support for Parish staff and volunteers.
Pastoral and spiritual care is available to all staff, as well as those accessing our aged care services, whether in home care, retirement living, or residential aged care. Family members are also welcome to receive support from our pastoral and spiritual care team, particularly when preparing to say goodbye to a loved one or during times of grief.
Yes. Pastoral and spiritual care is for all people, regardless of religious affiliation or beliefs.
The pastoral and spiritual care team are not counsellors or therapists. They provide a welcoming, non-judgemental, empathetic listening presence. They can also refer to more specific support services where required.
To register an interest in volunteering with the pastoral and spiritual care team, contact the pastoral office on (02) 6583 1024. You can also view more volunteering opportunities on our volunteering page.
For more information or to arrange pastoral care services, please contact the pastoral office on (02) 6583 1024 or by submitting an enquiry form.
St Agnes’ Catholic Parish acknowledges the Birpai people as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, work, and serve. We acknowledge their deep connection to this land, its waters, skies, and stories, nurtured with wisdom, care, and resilience for countless generations. We pay our respects to Elders past, present, and emerging and extend this respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
