“Therefore encourage one another and build up each other.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Among the many works of Christian service, Jesus placed a high priority on tangible deeds of love to those in need. In fact, Jesus said, “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples.” (John 13:34-35a).

We all have challenges in our lives. There are times when those challenges become more than we can handle alone. Our ordained clergy, Gary Miller, Peter Grandy, Erica Thompson and Pastoral Counselor, Bob Henderson are the core of the Care Giving team, but there are many others who provide care to our church family.  All of the ordained ministers from AHCC visit area hospitals every day. They offer spiritual support and prayer to people preparing for surgery, childbirth or other hospitalization, and follow-up visits as well.

Joan Hopper, Parish Visitor, visits the homes of church members who cannot get to church. She listens, cheers and talks with those who live with their challenges. If you are unable to leave home, a parish visitor will  provide care and company for you.

Requests for confidential prayers can be placed in the specially marked box in the hallway next to the main office, or called in to the Rev. Peter Grandy, 860.525.5696, ext. 22.

The Stephen Ministers are congregational members with gifts for care giving, who have had 50 hours of training in providing emotional and spiritual care. These volunteers provide caring, listening, prayer, support and encouragement. They also are available on Sunday morning after the worship services. Extending the care giving that the ministers do, these volunteers are also available for ongoing visits where there is a need.

Through our Friendly Flowers Ministry, volunteers make small arrangements of flowers that are delivered to church members. Caring Casseroles are also made and delivered to church members who need a little support. Volunteers cook and deliver casseroles to people newly home from the hospital, to bereaved families, or to anyone having a stressful time and needing a meal.

The Prayer Shawl Ministry chaired by Jeanne Grandy, prayerfully makes shawls that are distributed to people experiencing difficult times or celebrating life events. This year over 35 shawls were distributed.

There are several Care Teams that coordinate efforts to support families with special needs. Groups form when the need arises. Those facing loss of loved ones, divorce, unemployment or other life transitions can find others in similar situations.

The Quilters Group is now making small pillows that can be given to women who are undergoing a mastectomy.

The Care Givers Support Group continues to meet monthly to provide support to individuals in the community who are caring for a family member. All of the church staff is most helpful in providing a network that CARES.

For more information on any of these ministries, please contact Rev. Erica Thompson , via email or at 860.525.5696.  It is a privelege to be able to provide a link between staff, volunteers and church members. We strive to be a caring community by remembering Matthew 22: 37-40. "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and first commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself."