The Homebound Program: An Interview with Nancy Connors

As Grace moves from the Pastoral Church Model (where ministers work with everyone individually) into the Large Church Model (where lay leaders are engaged, empowered and equipped to support ministers and lead ministries, extending reach), new programs enable ministries to expand, utilize the gifts of members of the congregation, and increase support for the community.

In 2019, there was a transition in Pastoral Care from the Rev. Dr. Jean Morris to Interim Pastoral Care Minister Rev. Christian Persaud, who took on a part-time role. To meet the pastoral care needs of the Grace community, the Homebound Visitors program was born.

In the summer of 2019, the ministers worked with Cindy Stephenson, Coordinator of Volunteers, to engage volunteers to become Homebound Visitors. In September, Rev. Jean and Rev. Christian began training the volunteers, ensuring they were equipped to develop relationships with homebound members through visits where people lived – at home or in seniors’ complexes. Nancy Connors, the Pastoral Care committee convener, says the program is a “great transition to our current model and moving forward with greater lay support.”

Nancy felt a call to serve in some form of pastoral care when the new Grace structure was revealed by the vision committee. She became the Pastoral Care Committee convener. This allowed her to use her gifts of experience and skills from previous roles as a nurse, a supporter of the parish nurse program, and now the Homebound Visitor program.Nancy says that the Homebound Program is especially important for Grace as “many members and adherents are aging and not always able to get out to church.” The Homebound Program ensures everyone has an opportunity to stay connected to Grace. The Pastoral Care Committee also implemented a Company of Deacons in 2019, and Margot Kellough serves as the Homebound Deacon.

People who receive visits are “so appreciate of being remembered, of knowing people from Grace still remember them, and that they have not been forgotten,” Nancy says. “Connection means so much for them.”

How to access the Homebound Visitor Program

Elders are the first line of connection for people to Grace. When people require more support, as they are unable to get to church, request home visits or additional calls or contact, Elders can forward these needs to the Pastoral Care Committee. The committee can then assign that person to a Homebound Visitor volunteer. Need additional assistance is accessing this program? Email office@gracecalgary.org to connect with the Pastoral Care Committee.

The Homebound Visitor Program during COVID-19

Nancy says the need is growing for Homebound Visitors, and the door is open to new volunteers. You can also learn more by emailing Cindy Stephenson, Coordinator of Volunteers at cindys@gracecalgary.org.