What are the responsibilities and job description for the Pastoral Care Associate (30 hours/week) position at Notre Dame Health Care Center, Inc.?
Description
About Us
Nestled near Lake Quinsigamond and surrounded by the Worcester Land Trust, Notre Dame Health Care Center, Inc. is a multi-facility organization grounded in the mission and values of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. We are dedicated to supporting the physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing of all who call our community home. Our Assisted Living facility is seeking a Pastoral Care Associate to guide and ensure the delivery of compassionate spiritual and pastoral care for residents, their families, and staff.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide a comprehensive pastoral/spiritual care program for residents, families, and staff across multiple faith traditions, in alignment with NDHC’s mission and regulatory standards.
- Welcome new residents and families within 48 hours of admission.
- Ensure the daily celebration of Mass, including scheduling and maintaining a year-round roster of priests in accordance with Roman Catholic liturgical requirements.
- Coordinate the daily distribution of the Eucharist to Catholic residents who are homebound or request communion.
- Maintain inventory of liturgical and pastoral care supplies.
- Collaborate closely with Pastoral Care staff and volunteers.
- Uphold, and implement departmental policies to ensure compliance with pastoral ministry regulations.
Requirements
Schedule & Work Expectations
- Typical workday hours are from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM subject to change to meet the needs of the facility and/or residents.
- Participation in a rotating Sunday schedule required (2 Sundays/month).
- Some holiday coverage may be needed, though this role typically does not work paid holidays.
- Classified as an “essential employee” under NDHC’s Inclement Weather Policy.
- Flexibility in scheduling is required.
Qualifications
- Commissioned Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Worcester or must be eligible for commissioning.
- Master’s degree in Pastoral Ministry or related field preferred. Bachelor’s degree with minimum 5 years of experience in Spiritual Care considered.
- Experience with elderly or infirm populations is a plus.
- Strong knowledge of Catholic theology, liturgy, and ethical guidelines.
- Commitment to serving a diverse community, including residents of non-Christian faiths, with the ability to coordinate or occasionally lead worship services for various traditions.