Agape is an outreach ministry to the elderly and homebound. This ministry is dedicated to improving the lives of our seniors and those who are not able to physically attend church. We provide them with the care, companionship, and resources they need in order to have a fulfilling and joyful life. We believe that every human being has dignity and deserves to be connected to the loving fellowship of the body of Christ. We strive to show them compassion, cherish their sacred stories, and ensure that they always feel supported.
In 2023, we ministered to the following: Pauline Bowling, Arnim & Kathleen Scott, Ron & Donna Deoerler, Dick Green, Sosama Thomas, Elsie Cantrell (Hillcrest of North Dallas), Janet Dawson (Emerson on Harvest Hill), Glenna Grimmer (Christus St. Joseph’s Village), Dot Hinckley (Christus St. Joseph’s Village), Don Kieffer (Briarview Senior Living), Alice McKaig (Brookdale Farmers Branch). With deep sadness we mourn the loss of Pauline Bowling, Elsie Cantrell, Dot Hinckley, Don Kieffer and Alice McKaig who passed away in 2023.
One of our Agape highlights is the annual carol service which our choir organizes at Christus St. Joseph’s Village in Coppell. In conjunction with the start of advent, the choir and members of St. Andrew's gather to sing carols at St. Christus St. Joseph Village in Coppell. We were blessed to share the joyful story of Christmas with the residents and staff. Father Thomas provided prayers and readings appropriate for Christmas. Our music director John Gambill, along with the choir and other church members, sang beautiful Christmas carols. Even Santa made an appearance and, with the help of his little elf, handed out candy canes to all the residents.
In 2024, we will continue to minister to Janet Dawson, Ron & Donna Deoerler, Dick Green, Glenna Grimmer, Arnim & Kathleen Scott, and Sosama Thomas,
Other ways to participate in Agape ministry:
1. Visit the elderly who are homebound.
2. Take pre-consecrated bread/wine to our homebound and administer Communion to them as a LEV (lay eucharistic minister).
3. Join Fr. Thomas on his monthly visit to Christus St. Joseph’s Village to listen and engage with the residents in conversation over a coffee.
4. Volunteer at Christus St. Joseph’s Village as a speaker, craft coordinator, music leader, or play a game with the residents.
5. Pray for the elderly and homebound.
6. Converse with the elderly and homebound over the phone.