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Our Faith

CCAS's Pastoral Advisor supports the Catholic Children’s Aid Society’s mission by providing spiritual support that draws on the resources of our Catholic Faith. The Advisor provides short-term counselling, support and referral services during times of stress, grief, illness, trauma or other difficulty. The following FAQs describe the benefits of this service for our community members:
If you are receiving child protection services:

Q. When should I seek help?
A. Your case worker can request the Pastoral Advisor’s assistance if you have a spiritual concern, for example:

  • you would like to have your child baptized or need help accessing sacraments
  • you are struggling with a difficult decision
  • you are sick or terminally ill
  • you need bereavement support
  • you have a spiritual question or concern
  • you would like someone to pray with you

Q. What support should I expect?
A. The Advisor can provide short-term support, counselling, prayer, referrals and practical assistance.

  • The Pastoral Advisor works with a team of CCAS staff who are providing services to you related to parenting or child protection concerns. 
  • If you prefer,  the Pastoral Advisor can arrange for you to see a priest.
  • The Pastoral Advisoris required to speak to a CCAS worker about any matters that indicate a child may be unsafe.
If you are a foster caregiver or volunteer:

Q. When should I seek help?
A. You can request the Pastoral Advisor’s assistance when:

  • you are experiencing personal difficulty, stress or conflict
  • you are sick or terminally ill
  • you need bereavement support
  • you have a spiritual question or concern
  • you would like someone to pray with you 

Q. What support should I expect? 
A. The following types of assistance can be arranged:

  • The Advisor can provide short-term support, counselling, prayer, referrals and practical assistance. 
  • The Pastoral Advisor is required to speak to a CCAS worker about any matters that indicate a child may be unsafe.