Pastoral Support

Ministry is, at its heart, relational work. It is lived out in the space between people—in moments of deep joy and profound sorrow, in times of clarity and seasons of uncertainty. Those called to ministry carry much: the care of communities, the weight of expectations, and the quiet responsibilities that are often unseen.

You are not meant to carry this alone.

The role of the Pastoral Support Minister is to walk alongside ministry personnel with care, compassion, and respect for the complexity of your vocation. My work is grounded in the belief that healthy, supported leaders are better able to offer life-giving ministry—and that tending to your own spiritual, emotional, and relational well-being is not optional, but essential.

How I Support You

My approach to pastoral support is shaped through three primary areas:

• One-to-One Pastoral Support
Confidential, compassionate presence in times of challenge, transition, or simply when you need a listening ear. This may include personal concerns, ministry-related stress, questions of vocation, or times of crisis for you or your family.

• Gatherings for Connection and Spiritual Nourishment
Creating and facilitating spaces where ministry personnel can come together for fellowship, mutual encouragement, and spiritual renewal. These gatherings are an opportunity to reconnect—with one another, with your sense of call, and with the Spirit that sustains your ministry.

• Workshops and Ongoing Formation
Offering workshops and learning opportunities on topics relevant to the realities of ministry today—supporting your growth, resilience, and effectiveness in day-to-day leadership.

In addition, I provide support in the search process, including training Search Teams and accompanying both teams and liaisons as they navigate the important work of discerning new ministry leadership.

A Final Word

This is a demanding and deeply meaningful vocation. It requires care not only for others, but for yourself. Practices of rest, reflection, prayer, and connection are not luxuries—they are vital to sustaining your ministry over time.

If you are in need of support, encouragement, or simply a space to talk, I am here.

My role is strictly pastoral and confidential. I have no responsibility for oversight or discipline of ministry personnel.

I can be reached at:

Email: LStevenson@united-church.ca

Phone: 226-564-1956

Pastoral Support Minister

Laurie Stevenson

Minister, Pastoral Care

Email: LStevenson@united-church.ca

Phone: 226-564-1956

Pastoral Care Minister

Laurie recognizes that the work of Pastoral Support for Ministry Personnel is vital for the health of the church. Those who serve in ministry often balance the spiritual care of others with the demands of leadership, administration, and personal life. Laurie brings to this work more than 25 years of experience in a variety of ministry contexts and a deep understanding of the pressures and challenges clergy face. She recognizes the importance of prioritizing clergy wellness, uplifting and encouraging those who serve, and ensuring that their ministry is met with care, connection, and appreciation for the sacred work they do.

Serves in: Antler River Watershed, Western Ontario Waterways and Horseshoe Falls Regional Councils

Location: Teleworks from home and spends time in the regional councils.

Role: Laurie provides pastoral care and support for Ministry Personnel, fostering their spiritual, emotional, and vocational well-being. She works to connect clergy with one another, support the formation of healthy pastoral relationships, and develop programming that nurtures the health, resilience, and joy of those serving in ministry.

Contact Laurie about: Pastoral Care and Support for Ministry Personnel; Support for Clergy Gatherings; Clergy Workshops/ Retreats; Seach Process Questions; Pastoral Relations Liaisons Training

My role is strictly pastoral and confidential. I have no responsibility for oversight or discipline of ministry personnel.

I can be reached at:

Email: LStevenson@united-church.ca

Phone: 226-564-1956

Pastoral Support Minister

Helpful Links:
Five Oaks Retreat Centre
UCC Benefits
Morneau Sheppell
Spiritual Directors International
Week of Guided Prayer
Contemplative Outreach