Pastoral Care for the Sick and Homebound: Bringing the Church to Those Who Cannot Come to Us

by Fr. John Clote  |  05/17/2026  |  Weekly Reflection

There are parishioners in our community who long to be with us at Mass but are unable due to illness, age, or injury. The Pastoral Care Ministry to the Sick and Homebound exists to bring the Church to those who are confined to their home, hospital, or nursing homes - offering them Holy Communion, a compassionate presence, prayer, and a sense of community and belonging. When Jesus said, "I was sick and you visited me" (Matthew 25:36), He made clear that caring for the sick is not optional - it is a Corporal Work of Mercy, a concrete act of love for Jesus Himself present in our suffering brothers and sisters.

Serving as a Pastoral Care Minister is a special honor and responsibility - it is through this ministry that patients, and in many cases their caregivers, discover that they are not alone because Christ is with them in their time of need.

Will You Answer the Call?

As one of the largest generations in the United States ages, the number of Catholics who are homebound is increasing. The genuine need many Catholics have for prayer visits, company, and Holy Communion is ever present - which is why this ministry needs the help of compassionate individuals who have a deep love for our Eucharistic Lord.

Ideal volunteers have a strong spiritual commitment to Christ and the Church, a desire to visit those who are sick or homebound, a dedication to sharing the Body of Christ with those in need, and in good standing with the Church. Through Baptism, each of us is called to a life of faith and service to the People of God and this ministry is one of the most beautiful ways to live that call. Training will be provided.

To learn more or to sign up, please email pastoralcare@smarymag.org.

Those who are sick, homebound, or know someone in need of a pastoral visit are also encouraged to reach out by filling out the "Request for Sacraments for the Sick and Homebound" form.