ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the important role of pastoral caregivers, however they see their prescribed roles, and it is about their own grief issues and journey. What is common is the risk of the minister to try to rescue, direct, or otherwise do things for the patient or client. The dying patient and the support system surrounding that patient, however it is defined, are engaged in a “dialogue with life’s ultimates,” and thus provide a pathway for pastoral caregiving. To transcend the pastoral caregiving role is to put that crucial relationship at risk. Preparation is essential for the work of ministry, and that includes the care of the bereaved. Preparation is a balance of the timeless with the timely. Balance is essential, and that means both the balance between professional and personal, as well as the balance of both timeless and timely.
