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The Hallmark Ministry: Extending Love and Care to the Sick and Homebound of Our Community
There are many ways of fostering connections and relationships in a community. For a large parish like St. Benedict Cathedral, it’s especially important to connect people to the Body of Christ in a variety of ways. Visiting the homebound, praying for parishioners’ needs, and welcoming people to Mass — all of these reach hearts in different ways. For Jennifer Browning, a member of the Hallmark Ministry, she found that sending cards to sick or homebound parishioners met a need that often goes unspoken.
“We’re hearing that someone was ill or in the nursing home and we knew nothing about it,” Jennifer says. “We’re thinking, how can we help with that or at least give our thoughts and prayers?”
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Jennifer finds that cards provide a unique and lasting reminder that someone is not alone. Cards can be displayed and read over and over. They are a visual reminder that the parish is close and is there for someone who might otherwise be experiencing isolation or loneliness.
“Cards mean a lot because people don’t often send cards anymore,” Jennifer says. “Someone can look at it again and enjoy it.”
The Hallmark Ministry took on new importance during the time of COVID-19. It became even harder for some people to get to Mass or receive visitors. In these times, any reminder of the parish’s prayers and presence holds extra significance.
“It might be the only card that they get,” Jennifer says, “It’s our way of saying, ‘We’re here and the parish is thinking of you.’”
The members of the Hallmark Ministry make a list of parishioners to whom cards can be sent, and then members ensure that these parishioners receive a card at least several times a year. In addition, members are always paying attention in case someone hasn’t made it onto their list yet. For those who may not have the time to pay visits themselves but still want to reach out to their fellow parishioners, the Hallmark Ministry offers an avenue to serve.
As a parishioner at St. Benedict, Jennifer knows that sharing Christ’s love with those who are in nursing homes or homebound is her responsibility. Her heart for those experiencing illness or loneliness brought her to this unique ministry.
“It’s our job to stay as connected as we can,” Jennifer says. “We want them to know they’re not alone.”
