Pastoral Care

The ministers are never too busy to talk with you. A brief phone conversation or a scheduled appointment when something is just beginning to trouble you may help to forestall greater problems later.

To make an appointment, phone one of the ministers’ assistants between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. on weekdays. When out of the office, they may be phoned at home, and in an emergency, you may reach them at any hour.

Galen Guengerich (212) 289-1555

Ana Levy-Lyons (773) 484-0757

When should you call a minister?

• When someone is confined at home
• When there are family or personal problems
• When there is a marriage, divorce, career, or other important decision to make
• When drinking, drug abuse, or any compulsive behavior is a problem
• When you want to talk about religious values
• When a loved one dies
• When someone is hospitalized
• When you want to talk about worship or the programs at the Church
• When you feel guilty, depressed, suicidal, or are troubled about sexual matters
• When you simply want someone to talk to

Counseling Referral

When it seems appropriate, the ministers may suggest more specialized individual or family counseling or therapy. This is not because they don't care or cannot help, but rather because as pastors they want you to be able to take advantage of the very best resources available.

Dr. David Kelley of Kenwood Psychological Services assists the ministers with assessing problems and providing referral to appropriate specialists. Dr. Kelley has earned an excellent reputation through his high level of success in matching people with the best possible help, whether for individual, family, or couples therapy, for long-term therapy or more immediate problem-solving.

Sliding-scale fees are available. You may contact Dr. Kelley through the ministers or by phoning him directly at (212) 744-2121.