March 28, 2022

Sending out Vitamin Cheer

“Don’t withhold good from someone who deserves it, when it is in your power to do so.” – Proverbs 3:27
“I tell you the truth whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.”
– Matthew 25:40
“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” – Galatians 6:10
“Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others….” – 1 Peter 4:9-10

Many of you may not be aware of United Methodist Women’s Cheer Group ministry to shut-ins and nursing home residents. This ministry lets those who can no longer attend church regularly know that they are not forgotten and that they remain an important part of our church family. Each month we send them greeting cards and notes as well as cards for significant events like birthdays, anniversaries, condolences etc. All this is done by a small group of women who are heeding God’s call to show acts of kindness and sharing. Time and time again, the recipients or their family members let us know how much these cards are like a shot of ‘vitamin cheer’. In a small way this shot of vitamin cheer is counteracting the negative harmful effects of loneliness and social isolation.

The Cheer Group also has a complementary ministry known as Friendly Visitors. As the title would suggest, these individuals visit our shut-ins as they are able to receive visitors. During COVID, in-person visitation has been limited but we also visit though Cheer bags that deliver a variety of fun surprises to the recipients. These bags can include: notepads and pens, Kleenex, assorted sweet and savory snacks, hand lotion, activity books, small toys or games, Chapstick, adult coloring books, fun necklaces, seasonal room décor and the like. I don’t know anyone who wouldn’t love to get a treat bag like that! It’s another dose of ‘vitamin cheer.’

 John Bunyan, the author of Pilgrim’s Progress, wrote: “You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you.” While this ministry qualifies, I find I always receive more than I give. When I deliver the bags there is such joy and I not only hear words of thanks but I’m often told how special or beautiful I am. Now if that isn’t good for the ego, I don’t know what is!

We are always looking for people to join us and get in on the fun of ‘being a cheerleader.’ Perhaps you will consider this important job or know of someone who should be added to our Cheer list. Let me or any member of UMW know.

Pat Deck