A Church’s Diaconate Role in Health & Healing
In addition to offering us a path to spiritual well-being, the Lord showed concern for our physical and mental health as well. For example, He informed us that we could cast all anxieties on Him because He cared for us (1 Peter 5:7), instructed the weary to rest (Mark 6:31), advised us to think about the positive (Philippians 4:8), and let us know that we should be in good health as it goes well with our soul (3 John 1:2). We are told that our body is the temple of God’s holy spirit (1 Corinthians 3:17) which reinforces the importance of caring for it.
There are times when we face challenges keeping our bodies, minds, and spirits healthy such as when we develop illnesses that reduce our ability to care for ourselves and fulfill responsibilities, are new parents who aren’t sure of how to meet our little ones’ needs, find we can no longer get around as well due to the effects of growing older, or feel that are coping abilities are being strained. In today’s society where our closest relatives may live a far distance away and neighbors barely know each other, seeking the help, guidance, and support we need can be challenging. In light of these realities, having a church family to turn to for help becomes important.
Many churches have developed Health Ministries to assist their members. Volunteers within a Health Ministry help individuals with the care of their bodies, minds, and spirits so that they can achieve their best quality of life and capacity to serve the Lord. They fulfill the law of Christ by bearing another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2).
We are excited to announce the launching of a LRPC Health Ministry.
There are a variety of ways individuals are served through a Health Ministry, such as visiting the sick, supporting and guiding new mothers, offering relief to a caregiver for a few hours, assisting in locating resources, providing transportation to church services and appointments, sponsoring health fairs, and, most importantly, praying. This type of ministry does not replace the services available from physicians, nurses, social workers, and other professionals.
Individuals do not need to have healthcare experience or training to serve in this ministry. As a wide range of assistance may be needed (e.g., prayer, visitation, running errands, driving to church services, supporting new parents,, etc.) there is an opportunity for volunteers with a wide range of spiritual gifts to serve. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace (1 Peter 4:10).
If you feel you’d like to have some help or serve as a volunteer to help others through the Health Ministry, please contact the Deacons, Charlotte, or the church office.
Our Health Ministry Coordinator is:
