Pastoral Care Guidance for Deacons, Stephen Ministers, and the Congregation of River Road Church, Baptist
Caring for those who are Homebound
Questions for homebound member visits:
- In what ways may the church be more sensitive and responsive to your needs as a church member here?
- What have been your most challenging adjustments in the last few months (years), and in what practical ways may members of our church assist—or care for you?
- Which of the following are your greatest concern here: personal security (living where you do), physical limitations, emotional isolation from friends/church members, spiritual adjustments (losing contact with fellowship, feeling distant from faith of yesterday, winter changes, discouragement, etc.)?
- How frequently do you wish to be contacted—by telephone, by a member of the church (deacon, particular friend)? How often would you prefer that the pastor call—or visit? Is there someone in particular you’d like to see come by?
- Do you need any care or consulting in regard to your financial or personal affairs (confidentiality kept, of course)? How secure do you feel about your present arrangements, living plans, etc.?
- Is there some errand any of us in the church may run for you—or something that needs repair? Would you like one of our deacons to stop by to make sure that all is well in your house?
- Is there some ministry that you’d like to participate in that the church is doing—or something you’d like to do from your home—and need more information about? (Our homebound members did a lot of calling and letter writing to members and visitors).
- Are you receiving our newsletter—and is there more information about what the church is doing that you need to receive?
- What are the best times to visit, call, or write you?
