Programs Supported by the Health Ministry Committee/Parish Nurse Ministry

1. Visiting Shepherds
Coordinators: Bev Johnson and Karen Norman
Visiting Shepherd’s is a caring ministry of visitation to the homebound. Our purpose is to help fellow members stay a part of our congregation by sharing love. Support, and encouragement. Visiting Shepherds may be individuals or families. This is a great opportunity to have children experience the value of helping others. Visiting Shepherds’ and the people they serve discover the joys of giving and receiving. Visits may be weekly to monthly depending on the needs of the individuals involved. Those interested in becoming Visiting Shepherds’ attend a short orientation and ongoing learning and sharing meetings offered every other month.

2. Befriender Ministry
Befrienders are lay people who make themselves available as listening and supportive friends through visits, phone calls, conversations at church, at work, and in their neighborhoods. They provide friendship and support for people experiencing any of life’s many transitions. Befriending relationships can vary in time from one or two conversations to a regular visit for several years. Befrienders initiate their own ministry when they see a need and also respond to formal requests from the program leadership. There is a 18-20 hour training program. Those who decide to participate in the formal program will meet once or twice a month for further education and support for this ministry. It is an extension of the pastoral ministry of the church.

3. Encouragement/Care Cards
Created individually by Ruth Johnson and sent to those who are hospitalized or going through a time of crises.

4. Prayer Shawl Knitting Ministry
Coordinators: Nancy Brenny and Marion Nichols
The Prayer Shawl Knitting Ministry is for members of all ages, men or women, who enjoy knitting/crocheting or would like to learn. The idea is very simple: As the shawl is being knitted, the prayers of the knitter are being woven into the shawl for the person who will receive it. The knitter asks for God to provide healing of body, mind and spirit, and prays for God’s love to surround and support the recipient of the shawl. When the shawl is given to the recipient it becomes a mantle of love, and God’s healing presence. Each shawl will be accompanied by a card explaining the meaning of the shawl and will include the first name of the knitter. When the shawl is given to someone, the knitter will be given the first name of the recipient and continue to pray for that person. The shawls will be given to members of the church or the community as requested by the staff or other members. Shawls may also be purchased for $25 for friends and other family members who are not members.
We also knit Baby Prayer Blankets. These hooded blankets are given to all new babies of church members. When we have an extra stock, we will also be able to sell these blankets to help defray costs. Baby cards were created by Ruth Johnson and Phyllis adapted the prayer for the prayer shawl to go with the card.

5. Faithfully Fit Forever
Fitness is a journey, not a destination (Kenneth Cooper, MD)
A exercise program involving the body, mind and spirit. The class has three parts--30 minutes of exercise (includes warm-up and cool down time), 10 minutes of weights and 10 minutes of “Stretch and Pray”. Stretch and Pray is a devotional and meditation time involving body, mind and spirit.. The program is designed for all ages and all exercise backgrounds allowing members to progress at their own pace while enjoying the company of others interested in getting moving and staying fit. Friends and neighbors are welcome. There is no charge for this class.
Time: Wednesdays 10:30-11:30 a.m

6. Wednesday Walking
During the months of June, July and August, we walk around Lake Harriet. Then we sit by tables near the Pavilion, have coffee, a treat and devotional time.
Time: Meet at 8:30 a.m. at the Pavilion Parking meter. Depending on how fast or slow individuals walk, it takes about 45 minutes-1 hour to walk and 20-30 minutes for coffee and devotions.
Everyone is welcome!!

7. Blood Pressure Screening
The third Sunday of each month in the Conference Room
Regular times are: 9:30-10 a.m. and 10:30-11:00 a.m.
Summer times are: 9:30-10:00 a.m.
Registered Nurses will take your blood pressure as well as do health counseling.
The Parish Nurse will also be available for Health Counseling

8. Lifeline Presentations
We plan 3-4 programs per year related to health issues of body, mind and spirit.

9. Healing Services, Advent Service of Remembrance and Care Giver Service
These services are scheduled in collaboration with the pastors. Health Ministry Committee members are encouraged to attend and may be asked to help with scripture reading, helping to provide refreshments and serve, greet and hand out bulletins, etc.

OUR MISSION: Thoughtful Faith. Passionate Action. Grace for the Journey.