How Spiritual and Pastoral Care Works
My Approach
I provide a calm, respectful presence for those who seek guidance, reflection, and a safe space to share their story. My ministry blends deep listening, compassionate curiosity, reflective questions, prayer, and simple spiritual practices.
Three values guide my work:
Relational – A space where you are safe, respected, and genuinely cared for.
Spiritual – Exploring your path, your questions, and your relationship with the sacred.
Practical – Offering simple practices that support clarity, growth, and resilience.
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Why Spiritual Care Matters
We are whole beings of body, mind, heart, and spirit. Teachers care for the mind. Medical professionals care for the body. Therapists care for the heart. Pastoral counselors and chaplains tend to the spirit, helping us connect with meaning, faith, and peace.
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My Background
I serve as a pastoral counselor and spiritual director, ordained as a priest in the Old Catholic tradition. My formation is shaped by the Benedictine spirit of prayer and hospitality.
PhD in Pastoral Counseling (religious degree) — Interfaith Theological Seminary (ITS)
MDiv and STL (Ethical & Moral Theology) — ITS
BA in Psychology and Human Services, cum laude, Ottawa University, Kansas
Chaplaincy Formation — Celtic Order of Benedictine Chaplains (OSB)
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Important Note
My ministry is pastoral and spiritual in nature. I do not provide licensed mental health counseling, psychotherapy, or medical care. When appropriate, I encourage and support referrals to licensed professionals.
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Telehealth Pastoral Services
Sessions are available online for individuals, couples, and families worldwide. You will find a welcoming and non-judgmental space where your story matters and your voice is heard.
📍 All sessions are provided via secure telehealth.
🌎 Se habla español.
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Who Can Benefit
Pastoral and spiritual care can support those navigating:
Grief and loss
Life transitions
Spiritual questions or crises of meaning
Desire for deeper spiritual connection
Identity and faith integration
Cross-cultural and interfaith journeys
All are welcome: people of faith, interfaith families, those who are spiritual but not religious, and those simply seeking a safe and compassionate space.
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Privacy and Confidentiality
I honor the confidentiality of all who come for care. While not a HIPAA-covered entity, I follow the same privacy standards used in healthcare chaplaincy.
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Crisis & Emergency Notice
This ministry is not a substitute for licensed mental health or medical care. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 911 (U.S.) or your local emergency number.
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Before You Book
Ekklesia Iwigá, Inc. is a volunteer-based nonprofit ministry. All services are pastoral and spiritual in nature and offered freely. Donations are welcome but never required.
Fr. Justo María, O.S.B., S.T.L., Ph.D.
Chaplain and Spiritual Director