We are called to care for people, and that work is not limited to pastors. Church Growth consultant and author Carey Neiuwhof asserts on his blog that inevitably pastors with larger churches can’t keep up and end up disappointing people... Caring for 30 people personally is possible. Caring for 230 is not. Our answer? A Pastoral Care team approach.
According to scripture, we understand our call as the priesthood of believers which means we share in this common sacred work of watching over one another in love. We find our model for pastoral care in Acts 20:28 as Paul teaches the church in Ephesus: "Keep watch over yourselves and over all the flock, of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God that he obtained with the blood of his own Son."
Our Pastoral Care team is designed to provide compassion, care and support to any who have need in every season of life, even when crisis and difficulties arise. We are available to visit, provide a listening ear, and to pray. All who serve in this sacred ministry of pastoral care are an extension of our church.
Our pastoral care team is led by our Senior Pastor and includes:
Our Pastor of Visitation, the Rev. Dr. Art Torpy, leads the visitation program for congregational care, inclusive of our homebound and nursing home members.
- Community Life, coordinated by staff member Lee Ann Branch, assists all new persons in getting connected to the church, finding their place to serve, and coordinating our Shepherd Groups.
- Our Prayer Team, coordinated by two lay persons, receive and distribute a weekly prayer list to a prayer team of more than 85 prayer warriors.
- A variety of Support Groups are offered throughout the year, coordinated by both staff and lay members. Call the church office to learn more about grief support, Alzheimer's support, Weight Watchers
If you desire a listening ear, someone to pray with, or if you are in need, let us know today by calling the church office. We would be pleased to serve you.