In the 25th chapter of the Gospel according to Matthew, Jesus speaks to his faithful followers, whom he calls his sheep, and invites them into the kingdom prepared for them from the foundation of the world. He says to them, among other things, “I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.” In this passage, Jesus shows us how much he himself identifies with those who are in any kind of need and shows us how we can show love for him by loving our neighbor.

I’m so glad that our congregation, with each of us playing a vital role, engages in many caring ministries, including our food pantry, clothing closet, and saving suds laundromat ministry. These important ministries are not just tasks, but a responsibility and a commitment. They serve many members of our community. They give us a way to work together to do those things that Jesus praised – feeding the hungry, providing clothing to those who need it, and helping our neighbors with their material needs.

As a congregation, we also seek to respond to other needs to feel included, valued, and loved. Not the least of these needs is connecting with our Lord through prayer and the Lord’s Supper. Did you know that we have a team of laypeople who are committed to helping with these spiritual needs? These visitors, who are integral to our ministry, go to the homes of members who cannot attend church regularly, to nursing homes and health care centers. They bring a warm smile and a time of fellowship and offer prayer and Holy Communion (using pre-consecrated bread and wine) in the homes or the health care centers where the members reside. This extraordinary and essential ministry has been ongoing for many years.

Our members who are served by our Holy Communion Visitors are very appreciative of these visits because they are often lonely. Many of them were formerly able to be active in the congregation’s ministries, and it is so comforting for them to see a familiar face! We want to grow this team. So, if this sounds like something God might be inviting you to do, you would be welcome. Visitors receive training from a pastor so that they feel comfortable bringing the Sacrament to those they visit.

Each of these ministries is powered by people like you who sense a call from God. Sometimes, that call takes the form of a little idea. You may think, “Maybe I could do that.”  That could signify that the Holy Spirit is nudging you toward this ministry! If you want to share your time and presence in these unique ways of serving God, please get in touch with Pastor Chris, Pastor Bryan, or the office staff for more information.