First Lutheran Church - Alexandria MN
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Visitation & Spiritual Care
Home | Ministries | Visitation & Spiritual Care
 
Spiritual care is a vital part of First Lutheran’s ministry.  We use a team approach which utilizes the gifts of pastors, parish nurses, and compassionate members of the congregation we call our "Friendly Visitors."

First Lutheran’s Care Team is made up of the pastors and parish nurses who help to coordinate visits as they are made aware of needs.  Spiritual and emotional support are offered through conversations, prayers, communion and encouragement.

Hospital Visitation
The Douglas County Hospital is checked daily by someone from the Care Team during the week.  When patients are hospitalized out of town or there is a need for a visit, please contact the church at (320) 762-2196.

Pastoral Care
Pastor Sherry Billberg coordinates the visitation ministry at First Lutheran Church along with Pastor John Peshek and Pastor Greg Billberg.  All of the pastors at First are available and interested in providing pastoral care to our members.  If you are aware of someone who would appreciate a visit from a pastor, please call the church office at (320) 762-2196.

Parish Nurses
First Lutheran is blessed with two RNs who have completed Parish Nurse training and extend the ministry of caring through the integration of faith and health.  They are a tremendous resource for our congregation and involved in various ways that encourage and promote Christian holistic health.  Our parish nurses are Val Trumm and Arlyn Davis and they work part-time.  They are available by making an appointment with them, and can be reached by calling the church office at (320) 762-2196.

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The Health Equipment Loan Closet
First Lutheran for years has loaned out certain durable medical equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, canes and shower stools free of charge.  If you have a need of such equipment for a short term, please call the parish nurses.

Friendly Visitors
Friendly Visitors are members of the congregation 21 years old or older who visit other members for whom it has become difficult to get to church.  The visits take place in private homes as well as at care facilities.

Friendly Visitors are men, women, and young people willing to reach out and encourage others.  The visits are typically once a month and approximately a half hour in length.  We are happy to provide support and on-going training to all.  If you would like to be involved in this way or know someone who would appreciate having a Friendly Visitor, please call Terri at (320) 762-2196.

Prayer Shawl Ministry
This group offers prayer support in a very tangible way to those in crisis or dealing with illness.  Volunteers pray as they knit or crochet a soft shawl that brings physical warmth and spiritual comfort.  For some information about how to be involved or to offer the name of someone who might appreciate a shawl, call Lola Anderson at (320) 283-5741.