Caring Ministries

The mission of Caring Ministries is to extend Jesus’ invitation to live life “(w)holy.” We are called to live out Jesus’ example to care for one another, to love our neighbors as ourselves, to comfort the afflicted, and protect the vulnerable.

Throughout 2022 the Caring Ministries team – parish nurse, social worker, Deacons, and the Middleton Counseling Center – continued to extend Jesus’ invitation to live life (w)holy. Through in-person visitation, programming, and direct engagement, members of BMPC and the surrounding community were comforted and supported.

Following the pandemic years of physical separation, the Deacons resumed in-person meetings and face-to-face visitation. They resumed delivering flowers from Sunday worship to homebound members each week, which has been a blessing to both the Deacons and those being visited. In May, the Deacons participated in a retreat led by the Rev. Laurie Lewis titled, “What to Say to People Who Are Hurting.” Her wise suggestions coupled with various hands-on demonstrations helped equip the Deacons to carry out their visitation ministry.

Carol Cherry, parish nurse, and Renee Malnak, social worker, visited members, assisted those with medical and family needs, and provided prayerful care. Together they were able to help people understand new diagnoses, navigate various hospital and rehab processes, and journey through the complexities of grief.

Kiki McKendrick, director of the Middleton Counseling Center, worked closely with the center’s 12 counselors to offer quality, affordable counseling in person and online. The labyrinth ministry, facilitated by Anne Montgomery Schmid, was offered regularly throughout the year, and the center’s spiritual directors, Patricia Danzon and Betty Wright-Riggins, presented multiple classes exploring spiritual disciplines and practices.

There is not enough space to share about the numerous exercise programs or support groups, as well as the prayer shawl ministry, medical equipment lending program, and other offerings. In these ways and more, the Caring Ministries team continues to help people live life (w)holy. As always, if there is any way we can support you or a loved one in need, please be in touch.