The Elizabeth Ministry

In January 1997, a core group of women met with Sr Ann Marie Kanusek and  formed a chapter of The Elizabeth Ministry at St Joan of Arc Parish.  In the six ensuing years we have evolved into the active ministry we are today.  We provide help and encouragement on a one to one basis to women in the child bearing years.

 

Vision of Elizabeth Ministries Founders

"Our dream is that this ministry will help the church truly celebrate the gift of each child conceived and born, and fully mourn each miscarriage and infant death. This will be a strong witness to our belief in the dignity and worth of all life! By assisting those suffering infertility, encouraging those in the adoptive process, and supporting the families experiencing an infant crisis, we will be a strong and consistent voice for life in our parish, community and world."

What is "Elizabeth Ministry"?

Elizabeth Ministry is an outreach to women in special times of motherhood, based on the story of Mary and Elizabeth.  The purpose of this ministry is to affirm, support, encourage, and assist women in response to their needs during the childbearing years.

 

Why is it needed?

In the past, the support needed during childbearing years was found in the structures of family, neighborhood, and church.  Today as these structures undergo rapid change, women are finding themselves isolated. The Elizabeth Ministry helps to  fill this void.

How does it work?

Elizabeth Ministry follows the example of the scripture story of the Visitation by bringing women together who share a similar story.  This ministry is an opportunity for like to like ministry through personal visits.  An Elizabeth Minister will be a link with the broader church community.

What we do at St Joan’s

Blankets for Babies—We provide the yarn for a senior parish member to crochet blankets which we present to our newest parishioners at home visits to the family.
Moms-Pops-Tots—This playgroup meets on Monday mornings from 9:30-10:30 in the Parish Life Center.  It gives moms and pops the opportunity to interact with other parents while the infants through preschoolers do what kids do naturally-play together.
Memorial Service—Each Spring we present a Sunday afternoon service for all families who have lost a child.
Memorial Garden—Be sure to visit our place in the Memorial Garden- you’ll find us at the right hand of Mary.
Soup Suppers—Each Lent, in cooperation with the St Joan’s Women’s Guild, we sponsor the Lenten Soup Suppers following Stations of the Cross. The free will offerings collected at the suppers, provide our financial support to continue our programs.
Newsletter—Our monthly newsletter keeps our ministers connected.

 

Our Elizabeth Ministers have reached many families who were in someway in need.  We have received many notes of gratitude for the support and help the Elizabeth Ministers have provided. If you are interested in becoming an Elizabeth Minister, call  Noel at the number listed below. 

 

 

For more information

To learn more about our programs, to join our ministry or for outreach please call  Noel  440-338-5311

 

Click here for more information about The Elizabeth Ministry