Care Connect Ministry
At University Park UMC, we believe we are called to care for one another. As an expression of our Discipleship Pathway—Prayers, Presence, Gifts, Service, and Mission—our Congregational Care Ministry provides opportunities to serve and be served during life's joys, challenges, and transitions.
Our congregation has always cared well for one another. This ministry builds on that strong foundation by bringing our care efforts together in a more intentional, coordinated, and holistic way. Through trained volunteers and a thoughtful care process, we can respond more consistently, connect people with the support they need, and ensure that no one walks alone.
Congregational Care is built on our commitment to know and be known, feed and be fed, challenge and be challenged, and love and be loved. Whether offering a meal, writing a note of encouragement, providing transportation, visiting someone who is homebound or hospitalized, praying, or celebrating life's milestones, each act of care reflects Christ's love in tangible ways.
Serving others is one of the greatest blessings of the Christian life. Through every act of care, God's grace blesses both the person receiving support and the one offering it.
We invite you to become part of this ministry in two important ways:
Volunteer your time and gifts to serve others through one or more of our Congregational Care teams.
Reach out when you or your family need support. Allowing others to care for you is also part o fliving in Christian community.
Together, we are creating a church community where every person is known, cared for, and surrounded by the love of Christ.
Care Connect Support Areas
Prayer Ministry
Prayer is at the heart of our Congregational Care Ministry. Through prayer requests, our prayer team faithfully lifts up the needs of members, friends, and our community, while connecting individuals with additional care and support when appropriate.
Card Writing Ministry
A handwritten card can be a powerful reminder that someone is loved and remembered. Volunteers send notes of encouragement, sympathy, celebration, appreciation, and support to help members feel connected and cared for during both joyful and difficult seasons.
Homebound Visitation Ministry
For members who are unable to attend church because of illness, age, or mobility challenges, caring volunteers provide regular visits, friendship, prayer, and encouragement. These visits help ensure every member remains connected to the life of the church and knows they are loved and remembered.
Hospital, Rehabilitation & Skilled Nursing Visitation Ministry
When members are hospitalized or recovering in rehabilitation or skilled nursing facilities, trained volunteers offer a caring presence through visits, prayer, communion, and encouragement. This ministry helps individuals and families stay connected to their church community during times of healing and recovery.
Meal Ministry
A home-cooked meal is a simple but meaningful way to share Christ's love. Volunteers prepare and deliver meals to individuals and families experiencing illness, recovery, grief, the arrival of a new baby, or other life events, offering both nourishment and encouragement.
Transportation Ministry
Transportation should never be a barrier to receiving needed medical care. Compassionate volunteers provide rides to medical appointments, helping members maintain their health while experiencing the support of their church family.
Grief Support Ministry
No one should walk through grief alone. This ministry surrounds individuals and families with prayer, compassionate support, and practical care from the time of a loss through the weeks and months that follow.
Joys & Celebrations Ministry
We celebrate with one another just as we care for one another. This ministry recognizes life's meaningful milestones and blessings through personal outreach, prayer, and thoughtful expressions of congratulations, helping strengthen relationships and cultivate gratitude throughout our church family.
How Can We Help?
Are you in need of care? Please complete the questionnaire below and someone from our Care Ministry will reach out to help you with your request.
