Congregational Care has always been a priority for us, though the isolation brought on by the pandemic magnified the importance of our community connections and how we care for one another. That experience changed us, helping us to add more intentional layers to our ministries of care. We have learned to value deeper, more consistent communication, ensuring that no one feels overlooked or alone. Here are the many ways we minister to each other.
Several times a year, including at Christmas and Easter, members deliver Grace Gifts, small, thoughtful care packages to our older members as well as to folks who have experienced a recent illness or loss. We love how Grace Gifts have made front porch visits a regular, informal part of our life together. They are one of many ways, small and large, that we care for one another and extend the warmth that is characteristic of our shared life as a congregation.
The purpose of this ministry is to intentionally serve as the hands and feet of Christ to one another. We strive to offer the Ministry of Presence for those who are sick, shut in, isolated, or otherwise unable to come to weekly worship services or participate in church activities. We desire to accompany our members on this journey of life. Our ministry meetings are designed as mini retreats for reflection, spiritual deepening, training, and encouragement for members of the ministry. Contact Linda Kowatch.
Looking for ways to care for First Congregational members? The Board of Community Life operates two caring ministries:
The Meal Train provides meals for members in times of need on an occasional basis. Contact: Julie Graf Frye.
The Care Train sends cards or makes phone calls to members in times of need. Contact: Joanne O’Keefe.
You will receive email notification and specific information as needs arise among church members. If you are able, you can respond and make a difference. There is no minimum commitment.
We knit 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 high school seniors. We knit on our own, but we come together several times a year to connect with one another. If you are interested in learning to knit, call Alma Alber and we can set up some time to work on knitting. Contact Alma Alber, or Jane Strohm.
The Spiritual Support Group for those in grief meets on a monthly basis serving those who are at differing stages of grief for a variety of reasons. The group is facilitated by volunteers and offers a safe and confidential setting where one can receive support whether the loss is recent or ongoing. The meetings are structured along respectful guidelines that foster sharing, reflection, and an invitational spirit. Contact Bill Forbes.
Death is a part of life. And dying in our times involves complex choices and pathways. Many of us are eager to learn more, plan more, speak our minds, and give and receive the remarkable gifts that this last chapter of life brings. And we would like to help others and ourselves have a graceful ending. Recognizing that the church community can be a rich source of support for people as they make this journey, the Ministry of Last Things seeks to put God’s love into action by supporting individuals and loved ones in articulating our choices and embracing the mystery as we all consider the final stages of our lives. Contact Jean Abbott.
