Caring Connections
Contact Pastor Dan for more information.
925-283-3722
dan@oslc.net
Creating a Caring Community
We take care of each other in a variety of ways here at OSLC. Although caring is embedded in the way we interact with each other in all of our programs, here we are talking specifically about how we care for those in our community who are ill, bereaved, or in special need of help. Read below to learn more about some of the programs that help us all feel cared for.
- OSLC Support Hub
- Stephen Ministry is our program of one-to-one caring between lay ministers and those in need of support.
- Senior Ministry consists of programs and opportunities for seniors in the community.
- Program Calendar
Ongoing Programs
OSLC Support Hub
Use the Sign-Up Genius link below to let us know if you could use some support as we collectively navigate the Coronavirus, or to let us know that you are willing to provide support to someone in your local neighborhood. If your situation changes, simply pull your name out of one volunteer slot and move it to another. The church will monitor the activity and do our best to ensure you either get some help or get to help. Let's do this together!
Stephen Ministry is a one-to-one lay (non-pastor) caring ministry. OSLC has trained groups of people to serve as caregivers who can provide high -quality, confidential care rooted in our religious tradition. Caregivers generally meet with someone who is experiencing a difficult time and can use a caring listener. Caregivers are not counselors, they are just trained to listen well and be compassionate. This is often very helpful to someone in a time of crisis. Contact Pastor Dan (925-283-3722 or email) to learn more about our Stephen Ministry program.
Seniors' Ministry
Seniors' Ministry at OSLC is broad and varied. We include it here because the senior community has a higher need for direct caring programs, and the senior population is growing. OSLC's seniors' program serves folks who are 55+ years of age by offering opportunities for fun, fellowship, spiritual growth, and service. This program provides the opportunity for our senior members to care for others, and be cared for, through all kinds of wonderful ministries and service projects. We invite you to join us!
Service Programs - Church Office
The backbone of our church office is our crew of volunteers, almost all of whom are seniors. Whether you can spare a couple of hours a month, a morning once a week, or an occasional day, we can use your help! Assistance is needed assembling the newsletter, helping put together the directory or annual report, or getting a mailing out. You will be blessed by the fellowship of working with other volunteers. You might even catch yourself having fun! Watch the Sunday announcements for needs as they come up.
Service Programs - Rancho Santa Marta
Many active "55 pluses" travel to the orphanage at Rancho Santa Marta, Mexico, in the fall for 6 days to visit the ranch and help with various projects involving building, painting, sewing, or cleaning. There is always plenty of time for fellowship, eating out in Ensenada or a nearby town, and enjoying the interaction with the many children and programs at the ranch. Watch for further trips. We guarantee that you will enjoy the camaraderie of this rich experience. Contacts: Nancy and Dick Anderson (925) 283-8342
Service Programs - Mobility Matters
A number of our seniors volunteer at Mobility Matters. They are caring, mature individuals who are willing and able to provide transportation to ambulatory seniors and disabled vets who can no longer drive. Contact: Elaine Welch, Executive Director, (925) 284-2207
Additional Service Opportunities
Other opportunities for service by seniors include music groups, facility care and grounds keeping projects, Altar Guild, Children's Ministry, and Stephen Ministry. Please call the church office for names of contacts who will tell you more. YOU are valued!