Shuttin but Not Shut Out
Mildred Tengbom
Must shut-ins be only on the receiving end of ministry?
Faith Lutheran Church in Jackson, Ohio, has discovered that people have a lot to give even when confined to a nursing home.
Isabelle Fisher, for example, taught Sunday school for years until multiple sclerosis struck, and she lost the use of her legs. She had to move into a nursing home, but Isabelle's fingers remained nimble enough for her intricate needleworkâand her voice remained strong.
Though she appreciated the tape recordings of the Sunday services, she told Pastor Robert Johnson that she missed participating.
"Isabelle," he said, "how would you like to record the Gospel and Epistle lessons for next Sunday, and we'll play them at church? That way you can be with us." She was delighted.
On Sunday the congregation broke into smiles when they heard Isabelle's clear voice reading the Scripture. Since then she has become one of the regular lectors, taking her turn twice a year. When another member recently had to enter a nursing home, she also became a "recording lector."
"We have about 70 on Sunday mornings," says Johnson, "and in former years I've served larger congregations. But I was far less aware of the resources available from folks who can't sit in the pews, yet are an important part of our congregation.
"I'm thankful our Lord helped us make this discovery."
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