Committed to Mutual Support
By Christine Guth with Cheryl Hollinger
To members of Forest Hills Mennonite Church, supporting one another during tough times is a matter of course. Cheryl Hollinger, Associate Pastor, explains that the congregation makes a practice of looking for ways to support an individual or family who is in crisis or who, like Gary, lives with circumstances that may require long-term attention. Together they design a support team, inviting members who would have expertise the family may need, such as a nurse, a financial advisor, a counselor, someone who is from the Sunday school class, etc.
book together during a tutoring session
Gary’s team meets at least quarterly—more often if needed. The congregation-based team worked together with other committed friends of Kris and Gary to purchase the accessible van that gives Gary freedom to get around and share his gifts with others.
In addition to the volunteering he does for Hospice, Gary is active in his congregation’s prayer ministry, praying with those who seek out the prayer room after Sunday worship. Two boys in the congregation enjoy his support in twice-a-week tutoring sessions. Though the recently acquired disability may some days tempt him to think he is sitting on the sidelines of life, it is clear that Gary has not been sitting on his hands.
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In July, ADNet released an entirely updated 2011 edition of Supportive Care in the Congregation , a Mennonite classic offering guidance and ideas to congregations following the call to support persons with disabilities and their families. Read an excerpt or order the book from MennoMedia.