Nursing Home Ministry

Church Growth Through God’s Eyes

/ pastorpete51 / 2 Comments

And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.          Acts 6:7 KJV

Nursing home outreach doesn’t carry with it the razzle-dazzle of building programs, youth ministry or Holiday pageants, but it does offer a unique way to connect to our community. That is exactly what we see in this passage from the book of Acts. The number of Christians grew rapidly not because of some church program but because they agreed to work together in unity to take care of feeding poor widows.  Imported from phone 083

In the early days of the church some things brought about growth that we will not be able to replicate (Such as five hundred people seeing Jesus alive after His resurrection). But there are other principles which we can follow in any culture, time or place. Showing the love of Christ by caring for our older generation connects us with their friends and families in a deep and powerful way.  That is not to say that we could simply use nursing home ministry as a strategy to build our church; but rather that amazing things happen when we align ourselves with the heart of God. Ministering in a nursing home blesses not only its residents but also those of us who serve. Teen-agers are reminded that their energy can give a smile or bring tears of joy. Middle aged people find out that the value of their own life will not change with age. Retired folks discover that residents will treasure their friendship because so few ever come to see them anymore. Through His amazing plan God will help His church to grow in numbers as together we draw closer to Jesus Christ.

P1030257

Angels Watch

/ pastorpete51 / Leave a comment

See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven. Matthew 18:10 ESV

When a wolf watches a flock of sheep they see a desirable target and a good opportunity to exploit. But to the shepherd  those sheep are precious and worth defending and worth being cared for. The Bible tells us that God sends his angels to watch especially over the small and weak because He is the Good Shepherd.    KIMG0874

Our Father sees behind nursing home walls,  He aches for children who are abandoned and He longs to shelter the tiniest babies as He knits them together in their mothers’ wombs. To our consumer culture,  these seem to be of little use, beyond whatever economic advantage that could be gained from them. But to God they are of infinite value.

So why not make plans to make a difference right where you are? The holidays are on the horizon; and I know at the nursing home where I serve there are lots of opportunities to serve. Or in your community you may be able to donate gifts that are given to foster children at Christmas. (We know this is special because our son has four). Or you could seek out your local maternity center. God has blessed all of us with so many different ways to allow the light of the love of Jesus to shine. The small things that we do for God’s little ones may not seem like a lot; but they matter more than we know. It is never too late to  start. Remember angels are watching; and they are sending back new reports to God every day!

Serving Communion at Nursing Home Part 2

/ pastorpete51 / Leave a comment

For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, 1 Corinthians 11:23

To those who have returned for part two I want to say thank you. Finding people willing to volunteers bring communion to nursing home is always a challenge. So if you are involved in nursing home ministry or would like to be and to begin bringing in the Lord’s Supper here are a few ideas that can help you get started.

Be Joyful: Serving communion is not a duty it is a joy! At the end of the last supper, even though Jesus knew that He would soon be facing death on a cross; scripture tells us that He has them sing a hymn. There are few things more exciting than sharing about and serving the Lord’s supper. So serve with a smile. You will be amazed at the blessing you will carry in your heart all week!

P1010193

Collect your materials. Do not buy a communion set. They cost a fortune! Instead beg, borrow or create your own serving plates. In my current home we have only about 15 people and a small silver tray along with a ceramic cup work just fine. I buy the disposable plastic cups by mail order and the juice and matzos at the store.

Communicate to your people and set a regular schedule of when you will be serving. Residents really look forward to receiving and will make a special effort to attend if they know about it in advance. Right now I am choosing the first Monday of every month but over the holidays I am flexible and sometimes serve a special communion such as at Easter; Christmas or Thanksgiving.

P1010212

 

Cooperate: Ask for help as well as permission from the staff. Just as I discovered, they are usually more willing to get involved than we realize. We see our people a few times a month, but the staff is with them at least 40 hours a week! They know them far better than we do and nothing could possibly replace the gentleness and love they have for the residents.

P1030082