Our Care & Compassion Ministry is a powerful resource here at Venice Presbyterian Church for those who are navigating challenging seasons. We understand that life can be unpredictable and overwhelming at times, leaving people feeling lonely, destitute, or troubled. Our ministry team is dedicated to connecting individuals with Christ and providing support during difficult times. We believe that God is working for good in all situations, and our Care & Compassion Ministry is here to encourage people to reach out for help and support. Whether you are struggling with illness, grief, or any other life challenge, we are here to walk alongside you and offer the love and care of Jesus.

 

  • Giving Caregivers of kids with special needs a break!

    What is Buddy Break?

    Buddy Break is a free kids/respite program where kids with special needs (VIP kids) make new friends, play fun games, enjoy crafts, therapy dogs, stories, music, activities and more! Siblings have fun too! Meanwhile, their caregivers get a break from their ongoing care-giving responsibilities for three hours one Friday night or one Saturday morning a month.

    Why is there a need for Buddy Break? The weight and stress of finding proper doctors, teachers, and financial resources for a VIP child’s care can be overwhelming. Those responsibilities, along with the never-ending demands of daily caregiving and life in general, leave little opportunity for caregivers to take time for themselves, run errands, or spend time with a spouse or other children—things desperately needed to survive. Buddy Break provides a safe place for VIPs and their siblings to have fun and establish meaningful friendships with other kids and adults while their caregivers get a break.

  • GriefShare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. You don’t have to go through the grieving process alone.

    GriefShare seminars and support groups are led by people who understand what you are going through and want to help. You’ll gain access to valuable GriefShare resources to help you recover from your loss and look forward to rebuilding your life.

    For questions or to be notified, please contact Carolyn Wilson.

     This is a free service available to the community at large.

  • Shawls and baby hats are knitted by a group of ladies. Upon completion, a final blessing is offered before the items are sent on their way. The blessing ripples from person to person, with both the giver and receiver feeling the unconditional embrace of a sheltering, mothering God!

  • Memorial Services are a special way to remember those we love.  After services, it is common for the family to want to spend time visiting and reminiscing with each other.  VPC offers a Cookie and Coffee Reception after each memorial service so that families are able to visit with their loved ones.

  • We are looking for individuals to join our prayer ministry in praying for our church, our members, friends, and the state of the nation and the world.

    Please contact Chris O’Brien

  • Are you going through a difficult time?

    Stephen Ministers are trained members of our congregation who listen, care, encourage, and provide emotional and spiritual support to people who are facing a crisis or going through tough times.  God never intended for us to go through these experiences alone. That’s why God has brought us together as a congregation – and why we have Stephen Ministry. 

    Our Stephen Ministry provides free one-to-one confidential care to people in our congregation and the community who are experiencing pain or difficulty in their lives.

    How Can We Help?

    If you or someone you know would like more information on speaking with a Stephen Minister, please call one of the leaders: Marcia Bickmore, 941-488-9379; Laura Saye, 269-339-5907; Richard Gilbert, 941-485-1494 or contact us by email, sm@venicepres.org

  • The Shepherds of VPC are a visitation ministry. Shepherds share time with folks who may need a lift now and then from a caring church friend.  Sometimes loneliness shuts us away from life and we lose our taste for community.  Shepherds share Kingdom life with others.

  • Trauma REBOOT is a 10-week, faith-based, peer-led course empowering everyday people to overcome trauma and embrace a brighter future.

    Through practical teaching and a supportive community, Trauma REBOOT can help you break free from the pain of your past and find renewed purpose and strength.

    Contact Chris O'Brien for more information