Pastoral Care Committee

The Pastoral Care Committee (PCC) was established in 1997 as a result of the Task Force for the Diocesan Millennium Study. The purpose of the Committee is to address and coordinate the ministry of pastoral care to the sick and suffering in the parishes of the diocese.

“Pastoral Care provides support to meet spiritual, social and emotional needs of parishioners and those within the parish boundaries. Pastoral Care Coordinators work collaboratively with their pastors to responsibly care for parishioners.”–Cathy J. Weidmaier

Committee Members:

Rev. Bryan Amthor
Hilda Beck
Shelly Lange
Esmerelda Lopez
Dcn. Mike McLean, Chair
Rev. Charles Rowe, STD, Liaison
–Members of the Committee are volunteers. The Committee is responsible to the Bishop.

Key activities of the Committee include:

  • Identify and encourage standards for pastoral care ministry.
  • Develop and/or identify an educational program/periodic training for parish staff involved in pastoral care ministry.
  • Plan for one Day of Reflection (November) for parish ministers and staff.
  • Serve as a resource and support for parishes who are responsible for Catholic pastoral care ministry.
  • Provide resources for various pastoral care needs-spiritual directors, counselors, and other essential elements.

Upcoming Event:

Day for Parish Staffs:

Pilgrims of Hope
October 16, 2025 – 9:30 am – 2:30 pm
Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, KC, MO

Fr. Derrick Weingartner, SJ, will present on the theme, Pilgrims of Hope. Bishop James Johnston will preside at Mass to open the day at 9:30 am in the Cathedral, then we will move to Donnelly Hall for the day’s program.

All parish staff members in the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph are invited to attend. Registration forms are being sent to all parishes in early August. Breakfast hors d’oeuvres and a full lunch will be served. For more information, contact mmclean@stekc.org.

©2025 Diocese of Kansas City–St. Joseph