Pastoral Care Ministries
Every man is a piece of the continent,
a part of the main...
- John Donne, "Meditation XVII"
--------
Love one another as I have loved you.
- Jesus, The Gospel of John
If you have a special gift or talent that you'd like to offer, it's quite possible that you can apply it through this ministry. Most of the tasks have flexible time constraints, so you can make it fit your schedule. If you have questions, need help or support, or have a new idea for how we can help can continue to be the hands and feet of Christ in the world, please contact us:
The Rev. Laura F. Gettys, Associate Rector
E-mail - associaterector@stpetersoxford.org
The Rev. Penny Sisson, Deacon
E-mail - psisson@olemiss.edu
Our Minstries
Pastoral Visitors - Members bring gifts of presence and prayer to those living in retirement homes, hospitals, and care facilities - Graceland, Azalea Gardens, the VA, the Hermitage, and Baptist Memorial Hospital. Workshops and education around pastoral care and presence will be regularly scheduled.
Home Communion - Those who wish to take the Eucharist to those members of the church who are not able to be with us. They carry the prayers of all of us as they take the sacrament of Christ's presence. Training and education are required. Please let us know if you would like to know more about this wonderful lay ministry.
Newborn Ministry - We celebrate the joy of new life! Through the delivery of meals, prayers, and flowers we shepherd in the newest child of God!
Transportation - Members of the parish offer transportation for those to Sunday services and as best as possible when other needs arise (for example, to the doctor's office and to the airport). This ministry is especially helpful to our wise elders and sages of the congregation. Who knew that sitting behind the wheel could be a gift of grace?
Prayer Shawl ministry - These wonderful people are involved in knitting or crocheting shawls/lap robes for those who especially need to feel the warmth of God's love enfolding them. Perhaps it is a challenging life transition or a hospital stay, no matter what the situation, these beautiful gifts are woven together with love and prayers. Don't know how to knit or crochet? No worries! One of our more experienced knitters will help you get started. We especially invite children to join the group. We gather at 7:15pm the first Wednesday of each month.
Meals - Are you a Julia Child or a closet Emeril? Maybe you just wish you were. Either way, we need you! Many meals are provided to members of the parish when there is an emergency, such as a death in the family, a surgery, or a recovery time at home. Food becomes a tangible sign of comfort and love; it becomes sacramental to those who are hurting. Please help us in this ongoing ministry. You won't be sorry.
Vigil arrangements - This group provides coffee and pastries during the Visitation associated with a funeral. The group may also provide meals at the home and/or a meal at the church when requested by the family. Usually the Episcopal Church Women (ECW) will make these arrangements for such meals. Want to know more about joining this group? Please contact Melanie Ladner - 662.513.6223.
Card Ministry - In the day of email and electronics, there is something especially meaningful about receiving a handwritten card in the mail. We send cards to parishioners when they are ill as well as when there is a joyful cause for celebration such as anniversary or birthday. No matter what you handwriting is like, we want you!
Caregivers Support Group - This group is intended for anyone engaged in care giving: parents caring for children, adults caring for their parents or siblings, and others. Support from one another, grounded in scripture and prayer, is provided in this group setting.
"Just Checkin' In!" Buddy System - Staying in touch comes in many forms these days. Those who have difficulty getting out and around or who live alone are invited to be a part of an e-mail "check-in" buddy system. This group checks on each other daily via e-mail.
