It has been said, “Love is the basis of godliness. Whatever the profession, no man has pure love to God unless he has unselfish love for his brother. … The completeness of Christian character is attained when the impulse to help and bless others springs constantly from within—when the sunshine of heaven fills the heart and is revealed in the countenance.” — Ellen G White, Christ’s Object Lessons, p.384.
At the heart of the care-giving ministry is the unselfish love for others.
The care-giving ministry is a support ministry. These individuals have been given the gift of often seeing in others possibilities that, without their care, would never be reached. Their role is like that of Michelangelo who once wrote, “I saw an angel in the stone and carved to set it free.”
There are other caregivers, however, who minister to those who seem to have no mental alertness, who are plagued with some form of dementia. We are reminded that “Love [care-giving] is the basis of godliness.” Caring for those who cannot respond is one of the most challenging yet needed forms of ministry.
Ever before the caregiver is the realization that they become the face of God to those under their care:
"Just as a father has compassion on his children, the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him. For He Himself knows our frame; He is mindful that we are but dust." Psalm 103:13, 14
A major goal for each Possibility Ministry is to work towards restoring a sense of dignity and personal worth in the individuals served. Linked with this objective is both the discovery of hidden talents and the use of one’s talents in the service to others. The example of Jesus was clearly reaching out with understanding, hope, and belief in the individual while opening doors of opportunity for service.
Restoring meaning to life is at the heart of all forms of Possibility Ministries.
Ministry Resources
How to Start a Caregiver Support Ministry
Support Agencies for Carers
Royal British Legion Admiral Nurses - Helpline run by specialist nurses offering dementia advice and support
Age UK- Provides advice for older people on benefits, care and housing options. They also have a range of carer’s information leaflets available for download.
Alzheimer’s Society- Provides information to carers who look after people with dementia
Carers Trust- Carers Trust have a range of online communities carers can join for support, information, friendship and to speak to other carers.
Carers UK- Carers UK can provide help and advice on a number of areas
The Children’s Society- Provides a map of young carers projects around the UK
Kidney Cancer UK - Information and support for kidney cancer patients and their carers
Macmillan Cancer Support - Information and support for carers of people with cancer
Mencap - Provides support and advice to people with a learning disability, and their families and carers.
NHS Social Care and Support - Produced a guide for carers on Carer’s Allowance and other available benefits
Parkinson’s UK- Support services for adult and young carers of people with Parkinson’s disease in the UK