Life-altering events happen; we’re here to listen and offer support.
Sometimes we all need a little extra support and care. Our pastors, Caring Ministries staff, trained community members, and licensed clinicians from Berkeley Christian Counselors are available to meet you where you are and accompany you on your journey. We would love to help—just let us know. For more information, contact David Wagner, Mission & Care Coordinator, at [email protected].
Prayer
If would like us to pray for you, a family member, or friend, call us at (510) 848-6252 ext. 1 or email at [email protected].
Active Listening Ministry
If you are facing a crisis, grieving a loss, experiencing a life transition, or facing a spiritual challenge of any kind, Active Listening Ministers are here to help. Our Active Listening Ministers are trained community members who provide confidential, no-fee, ongoing, one-to-one support to those experiencing a challenging time in life. For more information, contact David Wagner.
Financial Assistance
Through the Deacon Fund, First Pres provides emergency, one-time financial assistance to members of our community who are in need. Send a confidential request to [email protected].
Parish Ministry
First Pres Parish Ministry fosters community-based connections and care within our congregation. Parishes are smaller communities throughout the Bay Area defined according to zip code. Each of our Parishes is led by a team of Deacons and other lay leaders. Through gatherings and service opportunities, individuals within each Parish can become better acquainted and strengthen their connections with each other. In partnership with the pastoral care team, Parish Ministries also provides prayer and support for tangible needs. Find out which Parish you are in by contacting [email protected].
Home and Hospital Visits
If you are sick or homebound, our Deacons are available to come pray with you, offer communion, and listen to your concerns. Deacons are ordained servant-leaders of the church who serve as the hands and feet of our Caring Ministries. For more information, contact David Wagner.
Berkeley Christian Counselors
Berkeley Christian Counselors (BCC) is a fee-for-service counseling center located on the First Pres campus that provides evidenced-based professional counseling services throughout California. BCC provides a confidential and nonjudgmental space for all persons to process life, build skills, and resolve harms. Our diverse counselors share a strong personal commitment to their Christian faith and strive to integrate their counseling skills with a Christian foundation. BCC offers in-person and teletherapy appointments, superbills for insurance reimbursement, and need-based scholarships. For more information, visit berkeleychristiancounselors.org.
Christian Parents of LGBTQI+ Kids Group
If you’re a parent or grandparent on this journey, we are here to walk alongside you. We come from near and far, represent varied faith expressions, and share “I get it” belonging in community. Our group represents “kids” of all ages who reflect a variety of experiences. For more information, contact David Wagner.
Divorce Recovery Ministry (DRM)
Having received the non-judgmental love and comfort of God in the midst of our brokenness, Divorce Recovery Ministry provides a safe place for the Holy Spirit to bring healing to all who are working through the end of a long-term relationship. For more information, email [email protected]
Widow/Widowers Grief Recovery Groups
Our Grief Recovery groups are open to widows and widowers of all ages, whether you have lost a spouse recently or years ago. We provide a safe place for sharing experiences of loss and working through the grieving process. For more information, contact Merrilee Mitchell at [email protected].