Congregational Care at First United Methodist Church

Since 2007, a group of persons who knit or crochet (or are learning how to do it) have been meeting monthly to work together, decide who should receive an item and pray over those items completed and about to be distributed.  Infants who are baptized at Conway First United Methodist Church receive a baby afghan.  People who are battling illness, grief or some loss are also given a prayer shawl as a symbol of love from the church.

In 2008 the church began placing signs in the hospitality areas of both buildings and in front of homes when a member or constituent has a baby.  This helps to welcome the “newest addition” into our church family.

In our congregation we have a group of people with skills in caring for those who are experiencing life-changing events.  These people are called Stephen Ministers and have undergone extensive training to develop and nurture their caring skills.  People who might receive care through this ministry include those who are hospitalized, have lost a loved one, are separated and/or undergoing the process of divorce, are homebound, or those experiencing a wide variety of other events in their lives.  If you have questions about the work of Stephen Ministers or would like information about how to become a Stephen Minister, please contact Kisha Bumpers via telephone at 501.329.3801 or e-mail via kbumpers@conwayfumc.org.

Two to three times a year our church offers a support group for those going through/thinking about separation or divorce.  The group meets for 9-12 weeks to fellowship, guidance on a particular subject and discussion.  This group is open to the community and childcare is available.  Contact Kisha Bumpers via telephone at 501.329.3801 or email at kbumpers@conwayfumc.org, if you are interested.

The church has had grief support groups meet for a series of meetings for five weeks over the past several years.  Whenever the need is expressed and the need recognized, another will be formed.