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.
Cookbook Project
Would you love to share your best recipes with friends? Ever have someone ask for a recipe? Want to always keep those special family dishes? Submit your favorite recipes online to be included in our St. John’s Cookbook scheduled for publication this fall.
For more information about this project, click here. For the online submission instructions, click here.
All proceeds benefit the Pastoral Care Commission in their amazing contributions to the health and well-being of our parish.
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.
Contact:Teri Salmons or call 443-755-9807,
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.
Contact: Jenny Abel or call 410-465-9053,
Neighbor Ride
Neighbor Ride is the most recent ministry of the Pastoral Care Commission. We are looking for interested parishioners who would be able to provide occasional rides to those in our parish who have difficulties in getting to Sunday worship services. This will be a flexible commitment so that parishioners are not obligated to provide rides each week. We hope to have a list large enough so we can match drivers with parishioners who live nearby.
Contact: Dawn Hyde
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 5, 2010 at 3pm, 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.
Contact: Blair Kennard or call 410-750-3484
Health Support Network
Health Support Network offers support for those affected by illness, either their own or that of someone they love. One on one relationships take place with people who have ‘been there’ via emails, phone calls, and visits. Sponsors the Service of Hope and Healing each spring.
Contact: Robin Moskal, or call 410-750-3536
Blood Drives
Several times a year, St. Johns hosts a blood drive for the Red Cross. Volunteers are needed primarily to publicize the blood drive and to sign up donors. Other opportunities are available for people who can be present during the blood drive to help the Red Cross employees sign up donors and supply donors with refreshments
Contact: Clare Brooks
