Thriving churches have members who actively care for one another. This can be as simple as noticing when someone is “missing” on a Sunday morning or struggling with something difficult, and taking the time to reach out and care. There is a caring atmosphere.
In addition, thriving congregations often have a group of people who are trained on up-to-date ‘best practices’ in the ministry of pastoral care. Together with parish clergy, they seek to meet the pastoral needs of the community through prayer, companionship, and timely reception of the sacraments.