Carry each other’s burdens and so you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Galatians 6:2
Caring for one another is one of the central tasks of the church. Care can take many forms, such as a visit, a card, a call, or a casserole, but it is simply the act of sharing in the burdens of others and trying to help them through difficult times.
In the days after the COVID pandemic, the Surgeon General of the United States said that we were experiencing an epidemic of loneliness. As Brene Brown has stated, we were created for connection, and we believe that we need one another. We desperately need to be connected, Caregiving offers love to those in need, but it also opens us up to finding God in serving others.
Here are a few suggestions for ways of offering care:
Making A Phone Call:
- Craft your own message—using your own words. Below is a possible script:
“Hi (name of person you’re calling), This is (your first & last name). I am checking in to see how you are doing and ask if you have needs or prayer concerns.” (Pause…)
If you get an answering machine, you can continue with:
“I’d love to catch up with you. Please feel free to return my call at (phone number). I’ll also try back later. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Thank you, (first name of person you’re calling). God Bless.” - Remind the person their information is held in confidence, but ask if they wish you to share a specific concern with the others who will pray for them.
- Offer sympathy if they are down.
- If facing a difficult illness, surgery or situation, ask if they would like the Pastor to visit.
- Ask for permission to add them to the public Prayer List.
- Do not make promises you cannot keep.
- If you offer assistance—Assist.
- If you offer prayers—Pray.
- If you indicate you’ll call again—Call.
Sending a Written Message
A cheerful and well meaning message can be extremely important for someone’s healing process. A hand-written message shows how much you really care.
- Send cards, notes, and letters to mark special occasions— birthdays, anniversaries, births, baptisms, graduations, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, holidays, promotions.
- Cards to convey sympathy — the loss of a loved one—family member or friend, loss of a beloved pet, or any personal loss.
- Notes of encouragement to those who are ill or sad.
- Notes of acknowledgment that they are remembered; “Thinking of you today”.
- Notes of thanks—for a job well done, assistance, appreciation.
For those ill or sad—a note should accomplish these four goals:
- Acknowledge that you are aware of their condition.
- Show that you care.
- Express your hope and prayers for a quick recovery.
- Let them know many (We) are praying for them.
Let your written words come from the heart. RE-READ your note before sending it. Make sure what you intend to say—is said clearly and with compassion.