Family Ministry

Family is vital to West Church, and, we believe, to God!

Family groups at West are pretty individualized! Some have a traditional look, many are headed by single parents, a number include children from different birth parents, some have no children, many are older grandparents or empty nesters, and some are single people with extended family living elsewhere. West is certainly a blended family!

We recognize that, more than ever before, family groups need support and encouragement to make their relationships healthy and their connections strong. Our Family Ministries are designed to come alongside people with care, training, resources, events, mentoring, prayer, ongoing small groups, and honest, personal sharing. It's our joy to see husbands and wives treasure one another, children be nurtured, parents develop coping skills, extended families experience satisfying companionship with each other, and the larger community family of West become Jesus to one another in love, assistance, and authentic relationship.

Specific events for marriage, parenting, or current issues families face are listed in the Events Calendar web page. We regularly offer classes, social/enrichment events, and seminars.

Personalized counseling and referrals to professional counseling is always available.

For more information, please call Shirley Paz at (978) 373-3034 or email her at: shirley@WestChurch.org

Ongoing programs (scheduled throughout the year) include:

Marriage Mentoring

For any engaged or married couple who would appreciate having a trained couple come alongside them for the purpose of encouragement, help, support, growth, and connection. Mentoring relationships can be a great way to improve a good relationship, assist in an area of struggle, or to start off a marriage in strength. Mentoring usually lasts for a set period of time (a few months up to a year), with couples meeting about once a month, sharing needs with a more experienced couple who will share how they have learned (and are still learning) to cope with the issues within marriage.

Divorce Care

A weekly support group for those experiencing separation or divorce, either recent or past, conducted by people who have been there. You'll find others who understand, learn how to deal with the pain, and take steps toward rebuilding your life. Topics covered include: dealing with anger, loneliness, financial survival, developing new relationships, helping your children, and more.

For Men Only (FMO)

This confidential support group meets weekly to assist any male dealing with the issue of sexual addictions. For more information, wives who have questions may contact Shirley Paz, Director of Family Ministry, (978-373-3034) and men may call Ray St Amand.

Domestic Abuse Support Group

This group meets every other week, welcoming any woman who has experienced any form of domestic abuse (emotional, verbal, religious, financial, physical) in her past, or is in a situation where abuse exists. You will find compassion, education, resources, spiritual renewal, practical help, and connection with others who understand and care. Please know that this group is a safe environment where you will be treated with grace. Please call for details.