By Gail Marsh
“I haven’t seen Betty Hughes at church in a while. Have you?”
“No, I haven’t. Nora Stiles hasn’t recovered well enough to return to worship either.”
The faithful women who’ve helped our women’s groups in the past may no longer be able to participate as they did before aging or health issues took their toll. And while it’s vital to reach out to new moms and young women, it’s no less important that we continue to minister to the women who are physically unable to join in meetings, programs, and worship opportunities.
Homebound women have the same basic needs as the rest of us: food; shelter; transportation; companionship; purpose; and, of course, spiritual needs. How can your women’s group help to meet the needs of these women? Take a look at the ideas below. We’re hoping the suggestions spark additional ideas as you to minister more fully to the shut-ins you know.
- Food and shelter
- Offer to clean a room or two in her home. Take a friend with you to help.
- Launder bed linens and towels.
- Clear out and clean the refrigerator.
- Make safety checks regularly. Is the HVAC system working properly? Remove trip hazards like throw rugs or extension cords in walkways.
- Transportation
- Take her to doctor, dentist, and eye appointments.
- Show her how to order groceries online and deliver the groceries that she orders.
- Bring her along to family holiday celebrations, if she’s able. This is especially important if her own family lives far away.
- Companionship
- Deliver a meal or a plate of cookies. (Check for dietary restrictions first.)
- Call her once a week. (Perhaps split phone ministry with a few other women.)
- Plan to email her often. Send humorous cartoons or e-cards to brighten her day.
- Show her how to use Skype or other services that enable her to see and talk to those she loves and misses.
- Purpose
- Invite her to join your prayer-chain ministry. Keep her informed about specific needs for which she can pray.
- Encourage her to provide items for your annual plant sale or craft fair. Gather supplies she’ll need and be sure to include her creations at your sale.
- Involve her in your group’s support of your church’s active military personnel or college students. Perhaps she can send cards of encouragement or bake goodies to include in care packages.
- Spiritual Needs
- If she’s able to attend worship, offer her a ride with your family.
- Pray with her over the phone on a frequent basis.
- Send her faith-strengthening Bible verses via email, text message, or other electronic means.
- Occasionally mail a card, small gift, or a Christian book to encourage her faith.
As you consider these ideas (and brainstorm more of your own) don’t minister alone! Assemble your team, and together serve with joy!
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