CONGREGATIONAL CARE
The Ministry of Congregational Care works closely with pastoral leadership to provide compassionate support to members facing health challenges, personal loss, hospitalization, or any type of crisis. They are attentive listeners, discerning who might benefit from a thoughtful note, a phone call, a visit, a meal delivery, or transportation to medical appointments. The ministry also maintains a prayer list, ensuring that those in need are regularly lifted up in prayer, receiving spiritual support during difficult times.
This ministry is dedicated to offering temporary support to church members who are ill, grieving, or feeling isolated, with a strong emphasis on sharing God’s love in tangible and meaningful ways. The support provided by the Congregational Care Ministry includes:
Inclusion on the Weekly Prayer Chain: Ensuring that the congregation prays for those in need, offering spiritual comfort and connection.
Regular Check-Ins: Sending greeting cards, emails, or making phone calls to remind individuals that they are being thought of and cared for by their church community.
Meal Assistance: Offering help with meals on a temporary basis for those recovering from illness or surgery.
Visits: Making home or hospital visits to provide companionship and support to those who may feel alone or overwhelmed.
Transportation Assistance: Arranging rides to church services for those unable to drive or providing transportation to medical appointments on a temporary basis.
Prayer Shawls: Providing handmade prayer shawls as a symbol of comfort, love, and the congregation’s concern during stressful or challenging times.
Community Outreach: Extending help to community members who come to the church seeking assistance by offering gift cards for gas or meals.
In the event of a death in the congregation, Congregational Care volunteers work closely with the bereaved family to organize a warm and supportive reception after the memorial service, ensuring that the family feels cared for during their time of grief. The empathy and compassion demonstrated by this ministry are invaluable, as they offer a lifeline of support and love to those who are struggling. Their service is a testament to the strength of the IUCC community and its commitment to caring for one another in times of need.