PASTOR INFORMATION COMING SOON

Natalie Chalefante currently serves as the administrative assistant at RUMC.  She is a resident of La Grange, IL who joined RUMC in July of 2014.  Natalie is the proud mother of three children–Bella, Scarlett, and Elliott.  In addition, Natalie will be adding another bundle of joy to the family during the summer of 2015.  While motherhood is the the ultimate joy of her life, Natalie also loves what she does at RUMC.  Natalie says, “I am so grateful for the opportunities that have come about since I joined RUMC…the warm and supportive people and ministry that have become a part of my family’s lives–I couldn’t have asked for more when trying to find a church to call ‘home’.”

The Responsibilities of a Pastor within the United Methodist Church

Ministering to the Congregation: Spiritual Guidance and Support

Pastors in the United Methodist Church play a crucial role in ministering to the congregation by providing spiritual guidance and support. They lead worship services, deliver sermons, and facilitate opportunities for congregants to grow in their faith and understanding of scripture. Through preaching, teaching, and pastoral counseling, pastors help individuals navigate life's challenges and deepen their relationship with God.

Leading Worship Services and Sacraments: Nurturing the Faith Community

One of the primary responsibilities of pastors in the United Methodist Church is to lead worship services and administer the sacraments. They preside over baptisms, confirmations, weddings, and funerals, guiding congregants through these significant milestones in their spiritual journey. 

By creating meaningful worship experiences and facilitating encounters with God's grace through the sacraments, pastors nurture and strengthen the faith community.

Providing Pastoral Care: Counseling and Comforting the Flock

Pastoral care is an essential aspect of a pastor's role in the United Methodist Church. Pastors offer compassionate support and guidance to individuals and families during times of joy, sorrow, and crisis. 

They provide pastoral counseling, visit the sick and homebound, and offer comfort and prayers to those experiencing hardship or grief. Through their presence and ministry of presence, pastors demonstrate God's love and care for each member of the flock.

Engaging in Outreach and Mission: Serving the Wider Community

United Methodist pastors are called to engage in outreach and mission, serving the wider community and addressing social needs and injustices. They collaborate with local organizations, participate in community service projects, and advocate for systemic change to alleviate poverty, hunger, and inequality. 

By embodying the values of compassion, justice, and mercy, pastors demonstrate the transformative power of God's love in the world.

Collaborating with Church Leadership: Administration and Decision-making

Pastors in the United Methodist Church work collaboratively with church leadership to oversee the administration and decision-making processes within the congregation. 

They serve on committees, participate in leadership meetings, and provide spiritual guidance and discernment in matters of church governance and policy. By fostering a spirit of unity, cooperation, and accountability, pastors help to ensure the effective functioning and vitality of the church community.