providing for those less able to care for themselves
Our mission in the Congregational Care Ministry is to make and mature followers of Jesus Christ by providing care to the body of Christ in our local congregation.
Caring for Others
Many aspects of congregational care are provided by the pastors, but many members of the church assist in giving mutual care, with special emphasis on providing for those less able to care for themselves.
At First Presbyterian Church (FPC), our Congregational Care Coordinator and Committee organize care provided by member volunteers and keep the pastors apprised of congregational needs.
While things look different because of the limitations and restrictions stemming from COVID-19, we continue to care the for the needs of those in our church.
Services Offered
Visitations
One of the primary means of providing care to First Presbyterian Church (FPC) members involves visitation of members who are ill, hospitalized, handicapped, homebound, or in crisis. The Congregational Care Coordinator and the pastors do most visitations. They are assisted by a small cadre of specialized volunteers. Communion is provided to homebound members on a regular basis.
Prayer
Praying for one another is an important ministry at any church and is facilitated at FPC by the Congregational Care Coordinator, who receives and follows up on prayer requests and provides weekly prayer lists for the pastors, a Prayer Team, and for the church at large.
Care Net
In addition, FPC has a group of dedicated, specialized volunteers known as the FPC Care Net. The services provided by FPC Care Net volunteers include visiting the homebound, providing frozen, homemade meals and baked goods to those unable to shop or cook for themselves, and providing rides, handyman assistance, shopping, or cleaning on a short-term basis.
Encouragement
Other groups of volunteers create handmade prayer shawls delivered to those who are ill or grieving. Still others mail birthday cards to congregation members, provide tastefully arranged beverages and cookies for funeral receptions, and distribute flowers to sick and homebound members.
Support & Referrals
The Congregational Care Coordinator, as FPC’s first-line responder in many instances, is entrusted with the provision of pastoral counseling for those in crisis, nearing death, or grieving a loss. Referrals to written or online materials, support groups, and professional counseling may be given. At this point in time, the Congregational Care Coordinator facilitates a monthly support group for widows.
Funeral & Memorial Planning
If you are planning a funeral or memorial service, you may find this guide helpful. Please contact the church office at 863-686-7187 if you need assistance or have any questions.
Downloads
For more information on our Care Ministry, contact our Care Ministry Coordinator, Rev. Richard Phillips.