MINISTRY TO WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS
Psalm 68:4 says to “Sing to God, sing praises to his name; lift up a song to him who rides through the deserts; his name is the LORD; exult before him!” It is interesting that David explains why we should life up our praises to God. The answer is rooted in verse five where we are told that God is the “Father of the fatherless and protector of widows.”
A quick word study in the Bible of the word “widow” will show how the Lord takes painstaking care to provide and protect those who are widowed among his people. So much so, that James summarizes pure and undefiled religion in part as “visiting widows in their affliction” (James 1:27). Though many churches strive to care for their widows, they rarely emphasize this ministry, which is a detriment to the body of Christ. I want to change that.
Beginning Monday, March 28, 2022, FBCTLH will have a ministry dedicated to caring for the widows and widowers in our congregation. On that day, there will be a free luncheon from 12:30-4 PM for all widows and widowers in our Fellowship Hall. Deacons and their wives are invited to attend as well. The reason for the lengthy time is to facilitate an opportunity for fellowship and visitation. Transportation can be provided for anyone who needs a ride. Please let us know when you register for lunch.
During that luncheon, I will explain the foundation and vision of this ministry. This will include how the pastors will begin intentionally ministering to widows and how deacons will intentionally begin serving widows. Most importantly, I will explain how this ministry will help to equip widows caring for widows. Of emphasis will be both the spiritual care and the practical care of ministering to widows. Please know that this ministry is still being developed and your voice is necessary to that process!
It is my prayer that as we launch this ministry together, it will grow into a God-glorifying, gospel-centered, soul-sustaining, holistic ministry to our church body. If you are able to join us for lunch, please contact Joy Stein by e-mail at joy@fbctlh.org or phone (850) 222-5470, ext. 131, or register online here.
Terry Delaney, Associate Pastor of Missions & Pastoral Care