Caring is at the heart of our calling as a congregation. Members and friends of First Congregational Church in need of support or who know of members who would appreciate a pastor reaching out are encouraged to send that information to the ministers, Chris Braudaway-Bauman, chris@firstcong.net and Linda Kowatch, linda@firstcong.net
1st Tuesdays, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
The Knitting Ministry makes prayer shawls for those in our church community in need of comfort and support in difficult times, baby blankets for new additions to our congregation, and blankets for graduating seniors. Over the last 15 years, this Ministry has made more than 275 shawls and blankets. Contact Alma Alber, almaalber@comcast.net
2nd Sundays, Noon – 1:30 p.m.
The Spiritual Support Group for Caregivers offers a safe and confidential setting for those traveling the sometimes challenging journey of caring for a loved one who is ill or in decline. Contact Bill Forbes, wmforbes1@gmail.com, or Margaret Perez, mlbperez@aol.com
2nd Sundays, 2 – 3:30 p.m.
Because grief does not have an expiration date, this ongoing Spiritual Support Group meets once a month. Come and go as you need to this safe and confidential gathering. Contact Bill Forbes, wmforbes1@gmail.com
2nd and 4th Mondays, 7 – 8:30 p.m.
The Spiritual Support Group for Mental Health is an offering of our congregation to the wider community. The Group offers a safe and confidential place for those affected by mental health challenges as well as for their family members and friends. We welcome people of all faith traditions and people of no faith. Contact Anne Weiher, anne.weiher@gmail.com
The Meal Train is an organized meal prep and delivery schedule, a practical way to support members of our community who are going through a tough time. Each email to the Meal Train list contains a link to the sign-up site to cook and deliver a meal. Contact Christine Miller, christine.miller040@gmail.com, to join the Meal Train email list.
The Care Train is a note-writing group who are prompted to show our love for members on our prayer list by sending a card, note, email, or making a phone call. Contact Joanne O’Keefe, jnnokeefe@yahoo.com, to get the Care Train request occasional email.
The Ride Train helps organize rides to church or other places for members who need transportation. If you want to be notified when a ride need arises, contact Dean and Judy Ludwig-Keller, dkeller125@gmail.com or judykeller610@gmail.com, to join the Ride Train.
Last Tuesdays, 3 – 4:30 p.m.
Visitors serve as the hands and feet of Christ, offering the ministry of Presence for those who are sick, shut in, or otherwise unable to come to weekly worship services or participate in church activities. Visitors also gather monthly for a mini-retreat reflection, spiritual deepening, support, and encouragement.
