The purpose of the Congregational Care Ministry is to provide an organized way of caring for members' needs by Nurturing the body, mind, and spirit in health and illness; Equipping members to serve each other; Praying for and with each other; and assisting to provide Care and compassion to our NEPC members and their families.

CARE-GIVING GROUPS

DivorceCare® - Provides a weekly support group for those experiencing the pain of separation and divorce. Each of the 13-week sessions includes a video-based seminar featuring leading experts, a small group sharing time and a workbook for daily Bible reading between sessions.  Meets Sundays, 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. in Room A-102.

GriefShare® - This ministry is a grief recovery support group for individuals and families experiencing the loss of a loved one.  Each of the 13-week sessions includes a video-based seminar followed by small group discussion and a workbook for daily reflection and Bible study.  Sessions are held based on demonstrated need.

College Ministry - This ministry provides encouragement and prayer support to our college students.       Gift boxes are mailed to the students during exam week. Birthday cards and notes of encouragement are sent periodically asking the students to share specific prayer needs for which the team can pray.

Elder and Deacon Shepherding Team - Each Elder and Deacon is entrusted with the care of one or two individuals/families who are seniors or homebound with illness. Twice a year a home visit is made to deliver a gift. Other times during the year the officer contacts the person(s) to detect any needs.

Samaritan Ministries - A team of volunteers who are willing to respond to a need in times of crisis or short-term illness or disability.  This ministry targets widows, single moms and the elderly and assists with items such as transportation, shopping, childcare or yard work.

Senior Bus Transportation Ministry - Each Sunday, volunteer bus drivers assist in picking up seniors who live in nearby retirement communities to attend the 11:00 a.m. worship service.

Prayer Team Ministry - This ministry bathes the entire Congregational Care Ministry, its programs, volunteers and staff with prayer.  Volunteers receive a monthly e-mail with prayer requests summarized by the Prayer Team Coordinator and then pray in their homes as the Holy Spirit leads.

FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Thursday Lunch Bunch - This ministry offers a mid-week opportunity for adult fellowship and hearing of the Word by the sharing of a devotional and special music.  The group meets at noon; lunch fee is $5.00.  Reservations are required.  Periodically, a "Lunch and Learn" program is presented by a guest speaker to provide information on a topic of interest.

Senior Solos - This ministry provides opportunities for fellowship and social activities for single adults over age 55.  The group functions as a support system for each other.  A luncheon is hosted four times a year in the Grand Hall with a devotional message and/or entertainment.

Traveling Friends - This ministry offers adults an opportunity to travel together on day trips to see points of interest across our state.  The "traveling friends" experience fun, fellowship, and learn about the rich beauty and heritage of our state and nearby cities.  Trips are planned periodically throughout the year.