Porch Prayers

STORY

Many of the members of Hope Evangelical Presbyterian Church are still in isolation due to the Coronavirus. With an average age of 80, they have good reason to be cautious. Their Pastor shared his heart with the small group social distanced around the conference table, “I can’t visit nursing homes or go on my usual pastoral visits to the hospital. I wish I could just visit people.” Hope’s reliable phone chain has kept the congregation updated and connected. However, they conceded, it’s not the same as visiting face to face. As we listened to their concerns, discovering their desire to connect with their members as well as other older adults living in isolation, we created the idea of Porch Prayers with Purpose. Porch Prayers give Hope Evangelical the opportunity to visit members of their congregation while following the recommended protocols regarding social distancing. Porch prayers might just be the beginning of a new outreach opportunity Hope has been looking for within an assisted living community just down the road.

Social Impact

“We should worry particularly about the elderly. Roughly 28% of older adults in the U.S.—14.3 million people—live alone, according to a 2018 report by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration on Aging. Evidence shows that social isolation and loneliness can lead to health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, a weakened immune system, depression, cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease.” Kopp, D. WSJ, March 22, 2020

SPIRITUAL Connection

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—Hebrews 10:24

By choosing to provide with Purpose, you are gifting small groups with creative ideas and tools to provide creative care and outreach options. Thank you for helping to serve seniors sheltering in place.