Ministers of Care

Visiting the sick and dying reminds us that we have been called by God to be servants to those in need. Compassion and empathy provides momentary help to those who are sick and lonely, but it does not heal. Only the Lord in His wisdom and mercy can heal.  

 

As a minister of care, I visit with the elderly and sick at Symphony Homes representing St. Josaphat Parish. Ministers of care are pastoral, sacramental ministers who visit sick, elderly, and physically or emotionally challenged persons in hospitals, nursing homes and individual homes for shared prayer and the sacrament of Eucharist. We bring people into a closer relationship with Jesus Christ by sharing the Good News through the Sacrament of Eucharist.  

 

The residents at Symphony include both the aging and sick. Visiting them brings me such joy. My experiences with the residents are different each visit.  After serving the Eucharist many of the residents just want to talk and tell stories. I listen to their concerns or maybe just hold their hand. Sometimes they ask for a favor, deposit a check in the bank or pray for a relative. I am happy to do what I can to bring them as much joy as they bring me. Our time together is brief but fulfilling.  

 

During some of my visits I am often not at ease, serving the emotional and spiritual needs of the residents. It can cause discomfort because I feel helpless in the presence of the incurable. I don’t know what to say to console the sick but I do feel that sharing in their suffering provides some comfort. I pray it does. I often say to the residents that seeing them is the best part of my week. My brief encounter enables me to see Jesus in their eyes and in my heart.