Finding Jesus at Dover Manor
by
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Many people look for ministry opportunities but fail to find them. Perhaps their church is small, or the ministry position they are seeking is taken. They may wait for a mission trip or a fund drive for a good cause to get involved. In the meantime, they go through life without the fullness of serving others on a continual basis.
However, I have found a source of unlimited ministry. In our nursing homes, there are millions of people who need a Christian friend who will visit them, pray with them, and treat them like a real person who deserves respect. While some nursing home residents have friends and family that visit them regularly, many do not. These are the forgotten people who go through the motions of living each day without hope, inspiration, or companionship.
If you have ever wanted to do something for the kingdom of God, here is your chance. You may wonder how it is possible or where are the instructions for starting such a ministry. I hope you will use this book to jumpstart one of the most rewarding phases in your life – that of ministry to the “least of these,” as Jesus put it.
Scripture says, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress” (James 1:27a). The concept is to take care of those who do not have the ability to take care of themselves. In previous eras, orphans and widows had no means of support. The apostle Paul instructed the Church to care for widows who were really in need (1 Tim 5).
In a similar way, you and I can make a huge difference in the lives of people who need loving interaction with people who care about them. There is no telling how our simple acts of kindness will impact those in nursing homes who are in want of love and compassion. Yes, they receive care for their physical needs, but it is the spiritual side that is often neglected. You and I can make that difference.
Our mission, if we choose to accept it, is to find and minister to residents of nursing homes in every community. We need to bring the love of Christ to these people in a way that changes their lives for the better. When we do, Jesus will meet us there. We will “find” Him in new and deeper ways in our own lives. You and I can participate, and it will not be painful! In fact, it may be the most rewarding ministry you will ever have.
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About the Book
If you have always wanted a ministry but haven’t found a niche in your church, Finding Jesus at Dover Manor will show you how to reach people who need what you have to give. It will teach you how to recognize your calling and how to pray and encourage lonely people. There are thousands who qualify as “the least of these,” as Jesus put it. They are the forgotten people who live in nursing homes. It may seem daunting to begin a ministry such as this, but you will be amazed at how much God will pave the way for you. You are bringing the cup of cold water to thirsty people. And while we do not want to visit people in nursing homes out of guilt or duty, we should let the words of Jesus urge us into action.
Often we sit waiting for a nudge to go and do something positive. You will be amazed at how fulfilling it can be to bring joy to those waiting to receive it. This book can help you learn to share your gift and to bring life to people in your community. Once you get started, you will find out that you are the one who receives more blessings than your care receivers do. If you want more information, please visit our website: www.NHVPN.org. It stands for nursing home visitor and prayer network.
About the Author
Randal A. Wiedemann has an M.B.A. from the University of Cincinnati, and a Master’s in Practical Ministries from Cincinnati Bible Seminary. He is an authority on making mistakes and experiencing the grace of God firsthand. Randal is president of an aviation consulting firm and lives with his family in central Kentucky. Randal's ministry to nursing homes began when he visited his mother at Dover Manor. It has continued and grown over the years. He has recorded stories about this process to help others discover their hidden ministry talents.