Pastoral Care

Pastoral Care is provided to help you mark and experience the presence of God in the milestones and challenges of your life, from the cradle to grave. Here is how to receive Pastoral Care at St. Andrew's.

Baptism

Baptism is the Rite of Initiation into Christ's one, holy, catholic, and apostolic church. At the Baptism of infants, parents take serious vows to nurture their children in the faith. Therefore, we encourage those seeking to baptize their babies to be or become church members. Baptisms are also performed for older children and adults, who may not have been raised in a church. We schedule Baptisms on Sundays during the main service throughout the year, except during Advent and Lent. One counseling session is required prior to Baptism.

Confirmation

Confirmation is an adult reaffirmation of the Baptismal vows that parents made on behalf of their infant children. It is offered once a year for mature youth and adults. The 6-week Inquirer's Class is a prerequisite for Confirmation.

Pastoral Counseling

Pastor Claudia is available by appointment for pastoral counseling. Please call the office at 956-943-1962 to set up a convenient time.

Hospital or Home Visits

Please let the office know that you are in the hospital or home-bound by calling 956-943-1962 or email office@standrewsportisabel.org. For emergencies, contact Pastor Claudia direct at rector@standrewsportisabel.org

Prayer Ministry

St. Andrew's has a prayer chain that consists of parishioners and others who will intercede for you or a loved one on a regular basis. We also offer the laying on of hands and healing prayer on request. Please call the office at 956-943-1962 to be added to the prayer chain or make a prayer appointment.

Weddings

St. Andrew's performs weddings for those who are members or who intend to become members of our church. Our marriage service is from the Book of Common Prayer, which writes that "marriage is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently, deliberately, and in accordance with the purposes for which it was instituted by God." (Book of Common Prayer page 423).

In order to prepare for this sacred event, we require that you get in touch with Pastor Claudia at least six months before you plan to marry. Please do not send out invitations until you have spoken with her. Four sessions of marriage counseling are required, and permission by the bishop is required for those who have been previously married.

Funerals

Funerals and Memorial Services, either in our church or at the gravesite may be arranged by contacting the office at 956-943-1962. This is provided as a service both to members and non-members.