Lay Ministry Training At Ashlar

The Rev Anne Baltzell, Ashlar of Newtown’s chaplain, is currently accepting applications for the seventh series of her “Lay Training in Geriatric Ministry” program that begins this fall.

The program teaches basic ministry skills to community volunteers who then devote up to four hours a week of spiritual care for a year at Ashlar of Newtown. The skills learned may also be applied to ministry in church and community.

The program is open to individuals of all faiths. Participants take part in a ten-week course, which covers such topics as pastoral conversations with elderly persons, grief and loss and ethical issues in the nursing home setting. Monthly continuing education sessions are offered following the training.

Ministry with the residents at Ashlar of Newtown is a mutual ministry. The Lay Chaplain volunteers bring spiritual care and resources while learning from the stories of the residents’ lives.

For additional information, please call Chaplain Baltzell at 203-364-3146.