Ministry to Sick and Homebound

Function

Ministers to the sick visit and take the Eucharist to those in our community who are unable to get to church. Some visits are short term - recovering from surgery, auto accident, illness, etc. Others we visit are too frail to get to church or have severe mobility problems or a long term, perhaps terminal, illness. Some are in their own homes, others are in small board and care facilities in the neighborhoods.

Whatever the reason, we take along the bulletin and talk about what’s going on in the parish to keep people in touch and have them feel part of our community. We may even bring along some gems from Father’s homily or one of Fr. Frank’s stories. The Eucharist is all important, but the visit and talking helps so much. Most visits are weekly.

We also visit both nursing homes here in Lafayette weekly where Fr. Kasper says Mass each month. We also visit parishioners in local hospitals.

Structure

The ministry is currently chaired by Les Berkes. We have about twenty ministers.

Member Profile

Members from all segments of the parish are welcomed and valued; patience, kindness and listening skills are most helpful. It is a wonderful experience to take Jesus to someone unable to get to church. Training and support are provided.

Time Commitment

We have one salad supper meeting each year in September. Some ministers visit one person weekly, others visit convalescent hospitals monthly, some visit Lafayette Convalescent weekly. See function above. 

Term of Service

The ministry has functioned without set terms and limits.