Recognize the work of caregivers

Caregiver Sunday, November 15, 2009

Recent statistics indicate that as many as 50 million people in the United States are providing some amount of care for a family member who is chronically ill, has a disability or is experiencing frailty associated with age. Congregations can provide needed support and respite through congregational care teams.

November 15, 2009, is Caregiver Sunday. Get suggestions caregiving in your congregation and resources for people who provide care.

Caregiving suggestions

1.  If your congregation hasn’t formed a care team ministry, now is a great time.
2. Identify caregivers who might not be showing up in services regularly — because caregiving can be a 24-7 activity.
3. Make and take caregiver baskets to people in your congregation who are caretaking.  Help them know that they are important!
4. Hold a reception for caregivers, making certain to provide extra support that might be needed to allow caregivers and the family member for whom they are caring to come.  Designate someone who can relieve the caregiver at home for a while, if the person for whom she/he is caring cannot travel.
5. Even if your congregation does not have care teams, look for ways to support those who are giving care.

Resources for caregivers

• Caregiver Sunday liturgy
• A Litany of Prayer for Those Who Offer Care
• Tips for Care for the One Who Offers Care — YOU!
• Resources for Those Who Offer Care
• Praying With Those Who Offer Care
• A Blessing for the Hands of Those Who Offer Care
• Depression: A Common Concern for Those Who Offer Care

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