People taking care of people, where parishioners involved in the vital ministries of Pastoral Care come together to both care for others and receive care themselves. The Pastoral Care Commission, a group of twelve ministries essential to the health of our parish, reaches out to the St. John’s community through mutual ministry. Whether it is delivering a homemade meal to someone just out of the hospital, praying for a child in crisis, knitting a prayer shawl, delivering altar flowers, or bringing Holy Communion to a bedside, Pastoral Care touches all members of our congregation. These ‘quiet’ ministries of St. John’s make a difference in all of our lives.
Prayer Ministries
Click of Comfort-the Prayer Shawl Ministries
Members of this ministry meet bimonthly to knit shawls for parishioners who are in need of a warm touch. The shawls are a tangible expression of the care and compassion of the St. John’s community. Not only have the recipients of the shawls been touched by this gift, but also the members of this commission have benefited by the sharing of prayers and love as the shawls are made.
Gudrun Huden, 410-964-437, huden@comcast.net
The Prayer Chain
This is a timely response vehicle for those who are in need of prayers for themselves or others in a crisis situation. This chain is facilitated largely by e-mail.
Teri Salmons, 443-755-9807, tlsalmons@verizon.net
The Bereavement Reception Ministry
These receptions, hosted by a faithful group of parishioners are for those families who have experienced the loss of a loved one. The gatherings are a wonderful way to come and break bread together after the service.
Jenny Abel, 410-465-9053, jabel9053@verizon.net
Tidings of Comfort
Not everyone looks with joyful anticipation toward the holiday season. For those who have suffered loss, are struggling with illness or depression, or just do not feel that festive mood, the long days of December may feel like a tunnel to get through. The Tidings of Comfort service, to be held on December 6, 2009, is designed to offer acceptance to those who are sad in the season of joy, to say it is o.k. to feel the way you feel, to embrace the expectation of Advent, and to rest on the abiding hope of God’s promises. The late afternoon service is followed by a warm dinner with other parishioners.
Health Ministries
Yoga Ministry
This ministry can energize your body, mind and spirit. The Yoga Ministry meets one evening a week led by a trained parishioner and adapts to the ability and need of each member. Modest fees help support other efforts of St. John’s Church. These 10-week sessions are ongoing throughout the church year.
Blair Kennard, 410-750-3484, blairkennard@verizon.net
Cancer Support Network
This network offers support for people affected by cancer, either their own illness or that of someone they love. One-on-one relationships with people who have “been there,” take place via e-mails, phone calls, and visits. The network sponsors the Service of Healing and Hope each spring. This is service offering uplifting music, healing prayers, and a chance to remember those you love with a special ritual oriented to springtime and Eastertide. The currently scheduled services are in the late afternoon of April 19, 2009 and April 25, 2010.
Robin Moskal, 410-750-3536, moskal@umbc.edu
