Sharing hope in care

"Pat is one of the longest serving members of our church family, a retired warden, both her parents and grandparents having worshipped at Peter’s.  She continues as a trustee to our local community centre from the care home, as her knowledge and expertise in matters relating to its constitution is invaluable. Pat has a wonderful listening ministry and although her physical health prevents her from getting out of bed, she has become a ray of sunshine to the care staff, something I noticed when she was in hospital.  

"This morning, we discussed how God can use us in even when we are unable to look after ourselves at home.  Although it is less than a year since her husband passed away, Pat continues to think of others.  She carefully listens to the carer’s stories young and old, (some recently widowed, others have moved here from other countries), who pop into her room to unwind and offload when they have a quiet moment.

"When Pat went into care, instead of complaining about her own situation, she busily set to work knitting prayer shawls and twiddle muffs for the other residents. Pat is a shining example of the light beaming into the shadows and bringing joy into places that are often forgotten."