First Presbyterian Church Ministries

Stephen Ministry

Stephen Ministry is a national lay ministry program designed to provide distinctively Christian one-on-one care to those broken in mind, body and spirit. A Stephen Minister is a lay person who has received 50 hours of training to provide emotional and spiritual care; a caring, Christian friend who listens, cares, prays, supports, and encourages; and someone who will "be there" for his or her care receiver for as long as there is a need. Maintaining confidentiality is critical as a Stephen Minister.

Deacon

The office of Deacon, as set forth in scripture, is one of sympathy, witness, and service after the example of Jesus Christ. Deacons are persons of spiritual character, honest repute, of exemplary lives, brotherly and sisterly love, warm sympathies, and sound judgment. It is the duty of Deacons to minister to those who are in need, to the sick, to the friendless, and to any who may be in distress both within and beyond the community of faith.

Prayer Shawl

Compassion and the love of knitting/crocheting have been combined into a powerful, prayerful ministry and spiritual practice, which reaches out to those in need of comfort and solace, as well as in celebration and joy. Many blessings are prayed into every shawl. Prayer Shawl Ministry means to bring comfort to you, the wearer, and an awareness of God's presence in your daily life.

Care Board

Care board is a dedicated group of members who deliver the alter flowers to our home-bound or hospitalized members. This loving ministry takes place every Sunday, snow, wind, or rain! Wearing their best smiles and friendliest faces, the Care Board members bring cheer or comfort to those who may need it the most.

Prayer Chain

Prayer Chain is the spiritual alarm system which communicates and takes prayerful action on the needs of the congregation, community and global needs. This network of people who are committed to prayer take action on behalf of the congregation on Jesus' words to "ask and you will receive, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened," (Matthew 7:7). The importance of the prayer chain is that it faithfully intercedes on behalf of others in need by lifting up specific requests, concerns and emergency situations.

Parish Nurse

Our program began in the mid-80's. Dr. Allen Goulding and Marge Pemble were instrumental in helping us to set and start our Parish Nursing program. Our Parish nurses are available on Sundays to take blood pressures. They also contribute with a monthly column in our newsletter dispensing advice about preventive healthcare. They do not transport folks to the hospitals, but they visit the hospitals regularly, and they make referrals to the appropriate healthcare agency.

Durable Medical Equipment

First Presbyterian Church can make your return home from the hospital easier. We have canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, bathtub seats, and toilet risers available for members use. If you don't see what you need here, please call the church and we'll try to find it for you!

Transportation Service

Responsible for administrative tasks and maintaining a list of drivers who are willing to provide transportation to the membership for worship services and other "special" one of a kind services, such as funerals.

Pastoral Counseling and Support

At First Presbyterian Church we want to make sure we lift one another in prayer & love during difficult times. We offer non-denominational, faith-based, grief support.. All are welcome. The group is facilitated by Cathy McLean.

Voyageur's

In October of 1951 the Mariner's Club, a Presbyterian national organization currently celebrating its 80th year, was organized here at First Presbyterian. The Mariner's formed as a group of adults to support and minister to families in the congregation, and for social opportunities. After 1986, the Mariner's name changed to Voyageur's, and in 2008 changed again to Primetimer's Voyageur's to reflect our congregations support of our Older Adult ministry. Voyageur's meets on the third Sunday of September, November, January, March and May following Worship.