St. Mary Anne’s Senior Ministry reflects the parish’s commitment to engage the elderly in prayer and worship, and emotional support. Our efforts are fostered by Scripture, when God commanded the people to provide for aging widows in Deuteronomy 14:28-29. The Israelites also heard this command to respect and honor them in Leviticus 19:32. And, in the New Testament, a new standard was established, one in which utter devotion to Jesus Christ meant to follow his example to cultivate a heart of care and respect toward the vulnerable. For these important reasons, we established a vibrant Senior Ministry.
Once a month, Father John and a team of lay ministers on the Pastoral Care Team, visit a nearby senior living apartment complex for a monthly worship service and communion. While there, they offer residents friendship and a listening ear. The team has hosted a Valentine Luncheon for the residents, and also decorated for Christmas. In one instance, a group of parish men helped move a resident’s belongings to another location.
They also visit a local assisted living community and a nearby skilled nursing home one time a month. At each location, they offer an abbreviated worship service, music and Communion. Our Director of Music will occasionally surprise residents, too, with an impromptu violin performance.
Members of this team often visit shut-ins and will bring them comforting lap quilts from our Mission Quilt Ministry or Prayer Shawl Ministry .
Together, they work to embrace the elderly with worship, prayer, comfort and kindness.
