Support in Times of Change

Pastoral Care
Especially in times of health, emotional or spiritual crisis it is often comforting to know our pastors are available for support and often help members find the ongoing resources needed for response and recovery. In addition, our congregation offers a wide array of other care ministries.

Pre-Baptismal Counseling & Scheduling
The Pastors meet regularly with parents and candidates for Holy Baptism to share the joy and responsibility of our life in Christ.

Pre-Marital Preparations and Weddings
Couples desiring to be married are encouraged to contact the church six to nine months in advance of the wedding day to schedule the needed facilities, receive Muhlenberg’s Wedding Guidelines, meet with one of our pastors, and receive important information about premarital counseling, as well as spend time at a retreat.

Marriage Enrichment
From time to time, an overnight ‘Marriage Retreat’ is held for those who are married or about to be married.  Its purpose is to strengthen and support marriage relationships.

Funeral/Memorial Services
At the time of the death of a loved one, Christians gather to mourn, celebrate the life of their loved one and hear the promises of the Gospel.  Please call one of the Pastors at the time of a death so they may offer presence and support, the consolation of faith and pastoral assistance in planning a funeral or memorial service.

Counseling and Care Ministry
Lay Communion Ministry:  Every first Sunday of the month, a devoted group of lay people take consecrated Holy Communion elements to our shut-in and hospitalized members.  

Hospital Visitation Ministry: Several members are trained to visit members while they are in the hospital to provide support, encouragement and prayer.

Neighborhood Shepherds: The congregation of Muhlenberg is organized into groups according to geographical areas. The neighborhood “Shepherds” provide extra support to church members in their area when needed and help spread the joy of good news.

Stephen Ministry:  “Christ Caring for People Through People” Trained, equipped and commissioned lay people provide one-on-one care-giving and supportive ministry to lay persons in need.  If you would like to know more about Stephen Ministry, becoming a care-receiver, or training to become a Stephen Minister, please contact one of the Pastors.

“Splash!” – A Mentor Program for New Mothers:  Experienced mothers over the age of 50 are paired with young, new mothers to serve as mentors.  The older women “adopt” their Splash! baby for the first three years of life.  Materials are available for the mentors to share with their mentee mothers each month.  What a joyous, rewarding relationship!

Divorce Care™
We pray for and support those who know the pain of divorce.  Our Divorce Care™ support group meets Mondays 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. in the Kairos Room.  Childcare is provided.