The present pandemic has brought to the forefront the myriad ways society is connected. No nation, community or people group has been immune from this deadly virus. We wear masks because we may inadvertently spread the virus to someone else. We deny the temptation to hoard supplies so that others may have access to materials that can keep them safe. We forgo the familiar rhythms of life in an effort to keep others healthy. We have radically adjusted our lives because we care for others.
This outward posture of caring is essential for our life together right now. Yet, it can be a difficult posture to sustain. By this point in the pandemic – day 155 – all of us have grown weary. We miss our family, our friends, our church community. We desire to have a regular rhythm that reminds us of the routine we used to have. Even though we know it is the proper decision to stay separated, to wear masks, it is a difficult realization to embrace.
Amidst these challenges, it is vital to faithfully care for yourself. During the pandemic, the Caring Ministries Team – Carol Cherry, Parish Nurse; Renee Malnak, Parish Social Worker; Kiki McKendrick, Middleton Counseling Center Administrator; and myself – have offered a weekly “Virtual Caring Corner” where various resources have been presented to help sustain you during this season.
At the “Virtual Caring Corner,” you’ll find resources on:
- How to give yourself some slack and take meaningful breaks.
- Adjusting to living with uncertainty.
- Incorporating daily prayer practices into your regular rhythms.
- Living in the tension between grief and gratitude.
- And other resources.
You can find the “Virtual Caring Corner” on the BMPC website. Once you’re on the Virtual Caring Corner page, you can scroll down to see our previous entries.
In addition to the “Virtual Caring Corner,” the Caring Ministries Team is here to support you by meeting in person, over the phone or via Zoom. BMPC’s Session recently approved meetings between pastors/senior staff and individuals or family units on campus in spaces that can safely accommodate the group while maintaining all appropriate safety measures, including social distancing and mask wearing.
By faithfully caring for yourself and your community you fulfill Christ’s command to love your neighbor as yourself. Amidst the ongoing pandemic, please lean on your church community as you lean on God for support. Together, with God’s help, we will continue on the journey ahead.
If you would like to schedule a pastoral care conversation or meeting, please contact any member of the Caring Ministries Team directly:
The Rev. Brian Ballard: 610-520-8820 or
Carol Cherry, Parish Nurse: 610-520-8832 or
Renee Malnak, Parish Social Worker: 610-520-8833 or
Kiki McKendrick, Middleton Counseling Center Administrator: 610-525-0766 or
