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Congregational Care Teams
Using Special Pets
by Pat Gleich
The emotional, spiritual
and practical needs of every congregation are unique. Many Presbyterian
congregations around the country are already engaged in congregational
care teams ministry to sensitively offer support to people with illnesses,
disabilities or other challenges. Now congregations are adding pets
to congregational care teams.
Children, youth, adults and senior citizens can all benefit from pet
visitors. Hospitalization can be monotonous; imagine the thrill of being
nuzzled, licked and loved by a healthy, vibrant dog. Staying in an assisted
living center is often the best option for people who can no longer
live by themselves, but pets are usually banned. Wouldn’t it feel
wonderful to see your beloved cat with her new owner once a week?
Pat Gleich is the associate for National Health
Ministries.
Learn how to incorporate your friendly dog or cat into a special ministry
in the November/December 2004 issue of Horizons.
Call 800/524-2612
~or~
to Horizons Magazine
~or~
the November/December 2004 issue now.
(HZN-04-250; $4 plus shipping)
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