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The purposes of Vital Signs' "Mercy Ministries" has been to
provide inspiration, encouragement and ongoing friendship to residents
of nursing care facilities and others who can't easily get around to
other social functions. This is a
ministry that is intimately linked to the comprehensive sanctity
of life ethic to which all Christians should be devoted. And guess what? It's
an easy task to perform! There are no special skills needed, no arduous
training, no expensive preparations - all that's necessary is a willing
and available heart!
The "Mercy Ministries" of Vital Signs have been as varied as the
interests of those involved. At its most basic, people simply befriend
individual nursing home residents, shut-ins, or others in need of
fellowship. It might involve conversation, reading the Scriptures
or a newspaper, bringing a kitten to be petted, praying together, or
taking in kids who have made a special birthday treat. There
are also team activities: group singing, escorting residents to the zoo
or store, making crafts, playing games, talent shows, leading worship
services, and more.
To initiate ministries in the nursing home near you, we strongly
suggest you talk to the facility's manager or activities director. They
have the information as well as the authority you'll need to pursue this
outreach. Be prepared to offer some specific ideas. And
please be ready to give the residents your loyal friendship. Just
showing up at Christmas time is not enough - God desires His people to
visit the widows, comfort the sick, and encourage the lonely all year
round!
"Mercy Ministries" can be a very powerful outreach. It changes your
heart; teaches patience and understanding to your kids; and helps meet
the very serious spiritual needs of others. So get after it! Add a
"Mercy Ministries" component to your pro-life worldview today.
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