We want to support you during this time
We all experience difficult seasons in our lives – illness, financial hardship, broken relationships, loss, grief. God uses each to shape us in distinct ways. He designed the church to be the community we need around us during these times.
Whether it’s with one of our pastors, staff, or someone in our church with a heart for others, there are people in our church community who would love to come along side of you. There are a lot of ways in which we are available to support and encourage you. Please let us know how we can stand with you.
One of the things we're convinced of is in spite of an unpredictable economy, changing politics, or the ups and downs of relationships, there is only one sure certainty in life. Our Creator loves us. His character never changes. God’s heart for you, your family, this community and the world is focused on inviting people into an intimate relationship with Him.
Counseling
Do you need some guidance and emotional support? There are times we benefit from speaking to a professional counselor about some of the issues we are dealing with. When additional counsel is required beyond what a small group or recovery group can offer, our pastoral care team is available to meet with you.
We provide referrals to trusted professional Christian counselors trained in helping others with relational difficulties in the workplace, marriage and family issues, addictions, and grief and loss.
When additional counsel is required beyond what a small group or recovery group can offer, our care team can meet with you to help you connect with counseling resources in our community.
Widow's Ministry
If you or someone you love has recently lost a spouse, you don’t have to walk through grief alone. Our church family is here to support you. Reach out to your small group or leader for prayer and encouragement. We also have a Widow’s Ministry dedicated to walking alongside women in this season with care, connection, and hope. If you have questions please reach out to Lindsey Lopez, llopez@encounterlife.org
Funerals
If you would like to have a memorial service at the church, we are able to provide a pastor and reception coordination if needed. If you would like to have a funeral off-site, we are able to assist you in making those arrangements.
Hospital Visits
If you or someone you care for has been hospitalized, don’t hesitate to call on our church body for support. Ask your small group or leader for prayer and support. We also have a hospital visitation team.
Meals Ministry
We have an army of volunteers who would love to provide meals to those who have recently experienced a life-altering event (birth, death, illness, injury, etc). If we can come alongside you during this time, please fill out the form below, and our Care Director will get in touch with you.
How can we pray
for you?
At ENCOUNTER our three essentials are Encountering God, Encouraging Each Other, and Engaging the World. At the foundation of all these practices is prayer. We have different opportunities for you to connect with others for prayer and we hope you’ll join us!
Join us in our online space to confidentially share requests and pray with your ENCOUNTER church family.
We have a team of people that pray for the incoming prayer requests weekly. Please fill out the form, and your request will be forwarded to our prayer team. You can also text your prayer requests to us.
Find God's perspective in the midst of crisis
Whether you are coping with a chronic illness or an addiction, divorce or loss of a loved-one, you will find compassionate care in one of the many supports groups we offer throughout the year.
Griefshare
Griefshare is a 14-week class with a trained grief counselor and a few others who are journeying through the loss of a loved one.
Grief Coaching
Grief Coaching involves one-on-one support, understanding, care and comfort, tools for achieving joy and fulfillment, and vision for the future. Grief is a process to work through; that’s why it’s called ‘grief work.’ Having a knowledgeable coach to walk with arm-in-arm can be a valuable way to learn how to grieve. For class info or to meet one-on-one, contact Debi Dixon, Grief Coach, at (805) 766-4071.
