C.A.R.E. Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q. Who leads C.A.R.E.?
A. The C.A.R.E. Ministry is under the leadership of the Diaconate.  Wendy Chrisley and Misti James support the Diaconate with coordination and volunteer assimilation.  Andy Crissinger provides oversight and support from a staff level.

Q. How does the church find out about needs within Eternal?

A. Small group leaders are in a good place to identify needs within their groups.  However, it is up to every member of the church to have an open heart and mind toward those around them and to be sensitive to needs that can be very real but hidden from plain view.

Q. How does someone get help through C.A.R.E. Ministry?

A. Call the Pastoral Careline at 803-984-6808 or e-mail care@eternalchurch.net.

Q. What about financial assistance?

A. Eternal sets aside a portion of its budget to help those in need. A portion of this money goes directly to local ministries such as Habitat for Humanity, Palmetto Pregnancy Center, Southtown Riders and Children’s Attention Home. The rest of the money is set aside to help individuals in our community through the C.A.R.E. Ministry. These funds will be distributed under the oversight of Eternal staff and the deacons in charge of C.A.R.E. Ministry. 

Q. What if someone who needs help is not a member of Eternal?

A. Of course we want to help everyone. If someone has a genuine need, we will do our best to help, in keeping with Biblical principles.

Q. How do I volunteer?

A. To volunteer on the C.A.R.E. team, please complete the survey form and drop it in the offering vase on Sunday.  Volunteer survey forms are also available at the C.A.R.E./ Information table on Sunday mornings.

Q. Who may volunteer?

A.  Both members of Eternal as well as non-members are welcome as volunteers. Children are also encouraged with parental particpation/supervision.

 

Q. What is the time commitment for volunteers?

A. C.A.R.E. Ministry allows for different commitment levels among volunteers. You can get involved working with the deacons as they assess needs and contact potential clients, or you can simply make yourself available to perform occasional tasks like mowing someone’s lawn or preparing a meal.  Volunteers can communicate their availability when they complete the C.A.R.E. Ministry survey form.

 

Q. As a volunteer, what if I feel overwhelmed with volunteering?

A. It is important to understand that behind C.A.R.E. Ministry is a ministry team, deacons, elders and church staff. For example, if a volunteer is taking a meal to a new mother and the child is sick, the volunteer can ask if the elders can come and pray for the baby and family.  All volunteers need to know they can depend on the leadership for help.  Eternal also has relationships with several local counseling centers to whom we can refer those in need of professional counseling.