Pastoral care is one of the primary responsibilities of the pastoral staff. But mutual care and support is part of every member’s covenant with this congregation. We walk along side each other in times of important events and changes. Below are areas in which we provide support in specific ways. To suggest or inquire about these and other possibilities, please contact Rick Pickering at 924-2612 or rpickering@northchurchindy.com.

Stephen Ministry
Stephen Ministers are specially-trained lay people who extend personal and pastoral care to individuals in need. This highly-regarded ministry is being revitalized at North in 2006 in order to offer a faithful and sustaining presence to others in our community.

Health Ministries
This ministry team organizes health fairs, blood donation drives and other events in support of good health.

Transportation Committee
Oversees the use of and policies related to church vehicles.

Bereavement Events
A team of volunteers can provide a reception or a meal when a loved one dies. Either at church or in the family’s home, this group stands ready to assist by serving food on the day of the funeral or memorial service.

Advent and Easter Flower Deliveries
Volunteers deliver plants from worship decorations to persons who are ill or confined. Such a visit reassures recipients of the church’s continuing concern for them and may generate a friendship!

Care Net
These are small but important ways we offer love and care in Christ’s name.
** “Violets for the Soul” means a friendly team visit to lift the spirits of someone at home or in care.
** Care notes and cards are mailed to remind members that the church supports them through times of personal difficulty.
** NorthNet email announces care notices such as births, deaths, and hospitalizations.
** Christian caregiving classes are offered during Lent or at other time.

Chicken Soup for the Soul
Volunteers stock a freezer in the Care & Nurture Office, Room 205, with items that can be delivered on short notice to persons who are recovering at home from illness. Typically these items consist of soups, stews and casseroles measured to serve one, two or four portions.

In-Touch Telephoning
Trained volunteers call all church members in rotation, an effort to keep in touch with the whole church family.

Occasional Transportation
Assistance with transportation is available for those wishing to attend Sunday morning church school and worship. In addition, with a few days advance notice, volunteers can provide a ride to a medical appointment or other need.

Friendship Celebrations
Members preparing to celebrate a 50 th or greater anniversary or an 80 th or greater birthday are invited to notify us. We would like to plan a Sunday Friendship Time reception in your honor! We also deliver cakes and cards to those unable to come to church.

Companions for the Long Road
Occasionally the church has members who are in care facilities for long-term therapy or treatment. “Companions” offer friendship and encouragement through regular social visits.