Spiritual Care Team at Unity of Roanoke Valley
Unity of Roanoke Valley is blessed to have a wonderful Spiritual Care Team. These are Spirit-led individuals who have completed the Spiritual Care Team Training Program. They give selfless, heartfelt, and dedicated services to members of our congregation.
This Team is based on God as the center, head, and heart of all that they do. The Team’s commitment to themselves and others is that the God within each of us is greater than the circumstances we see. As the members remember God first, they assist in “Holding Sacred Space.” To “Hold Sacred Space” is to become present and hold a consciousness of possibilities. This means that regardless of the circumstances, situations. etc. the members KNOW that God is greater, and from this awareness, they hold God’s presence and power in the moment that is now.
Our Mission
To pray with, comfort, and support our community.
What is the Spiritual Care Team?
The Spiritual Care Team consists of individuals who serve as Unity Prayer Chaplains.
Prayer Chaplains
- Actively and intentionally participate in the prayer stewardship of the URV community through one-on-one prayer support
- Engage with URV members via monthly wellness contacts
- Lead the Healing Prayer at Sunday services
- Listen and hold what is heard in the strictest confidence
Our Current Prayer Chaplains: Paul Blaiklock, Chris Cameron, Anna Epperson, Martha Perez (Co-Leader), Marjie Ratliff (Co-Leader), and Pat Reymore.
Marjie Ratliff
Prayer Chaplain
Team Co-Leader
Martha Perez
Prayer Chaplain
Team Co-Leader
Paul Blaiklock
Prayer Chaplain
Chris Cameron
Prayer Chaplain
Anna Epperson
Prayer Chaplain
Pat Reymore
Prayer Chaplain
What is the commitment?
Unity Prayer Chaplains are required to make a one-year commitment to their stewardship responsibilities. This service opportunity is for those who are ready to sincerely commit to the development of their spiritual growth and maturity.
Responsibilities include:
- Participation in annual training
- Attend bi-monthly meetings
- Hold sacred space at Sunday services
In addition, Prayer Chaplains will:
- Offer one-on-one prayer support after Sunday services
- Engage with URV members via monthly wellness contacts
- Lead Healing Prayer at Sunday services
What if I’ve never done this before?
No prior experience in prayer or praying with others is required to serve as a Prayer Chaplain. All you need is a willingness to deepen your spiritual experience through prayer and service. Each individual will determine how they can best serve our community after completing the training.
How does this differ from hospital chaplaincy?
Hospital and care facility chaplains are ordained and trained to counsel people. Unity Prayer Chaplains are trained to do three things:
- Hold spiritual space
- Listen
- Pray
Where do I begin?
The Spiritual Care Team overview is a required session for anyone considering serving on the team. Should you decide to commit to serving on the team, the training sessions will support you in determining the right path for you. Attendance at ALL training sessions is required. Training is held once a year. Download the Spiritual Care Team Brochure 2021.
