By Martha Steger

Manakin’s team for lay ministry at Spring Arbor and Brookdale Midlothian (formerly Southerland Place) does Eucharistic services the first Sunday of every month at 1:15 p.m. and 2:15 p.m., respectively. A couple of our team members got involved because they remembered their relatives’ experiences at assisted-living centers – and how church services meant a lot to them. Just our presence – with greetings to the 12-14 individuals as they enter for services – brings a bit of the outside world to them; occasionally, they bring a visiting friend or relative with them.

We do a Communion service with scriptural readings. As with our Manakin services, residents have the opportunity to pray openly or silently for those they wish to remember. They also enjoy singing, so we sing four hymns as part of the service. We also provide homilies or reflections.

Anyone who would like to join us the first Sunday of the month is most welcome.