As has previously been said, the verger tends to be the first point of contact for everything and everyone that comes to the church. Most things can be prepared for, but the unexpected should be anticipated where possible. With this in mind a customary could usually be compiled, listing agencies that may be need in a crisis. Below is a suggested list of heading:
What constitutes a crisis situation? The bereaved, the down-and-out looking for help, the confused, the bullied child and the battered partner/spouse, all these and more may turn to the Church for help. Having information for referral at hand eases the situation. Apart from these personal crises the Church should be ready to respond to the wider crises and disasters that may occur, whether local, national, or indeed international. Coping with large numbers of people in distress is not unusual. The Lockerbie disaster, the Dunblane killings and the sudden death of Diana, Princess of Wales, are examples of major national events which required great sensitivity to provide for the huge numbers of mourners.
Mundane details, such as adequate numbers of votive candles, books of condolences, finding places of peace and quiet for counselling all need to be addressed and efficiently; a prepared customary, listing possible suppliers and agencies, can help to keep things running smoothly in times of crisis.
- Churches and spiritual help
- Legal advice
- Financial and benefits advice
- Destitution and homelessness
- Family and relationship issues
- Illness and substance abuse
- The elderly
- Children and young people
- Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered
- Counselling and trauma
- Hospitals and clinics
- Christian listeners
- Police, local government and DWP
What constitutes a crisis situation? The bereaved, the down-and-out looking for help, the confused, the bullied child and the battered partner/spouse, all these and more may turn to the Church for help. Having information for referral at hand eases the situation. Apart from these personal crises the Church should be ready to respond to the wider crises and disasters that may occur, whether local, national, or indeed international. Coping with large numbers of people in distress is not unusual. The Lockerbie disaster, the Dunblane killings and the sudden death of Diana, Princess of Wales, are examples of major national events which required great sensitivity to provide for the huge numbers of mourners.
Mundane details, such as adequate numbers of votive candles, books of condolences, finding places of peace and quiet for counselling all need to be addressed and efficiently; a prepared customary, listing possible suppliers and agencies, can help to keep things running smoothly in times of crisis.