Nursing Home

"Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul.” 3 John 1:2.

The Nursing Home Ministry of Saint Mary Baptist Church as it exists today, began under the leadership of Pastor Conway L.. Knighton in 2000.   A member the late deaconess, Sister Rosalie Calvin asked Pastor Knighton to visit her husband, who was a resident at Sterling Place Nursing Home.   Pastor Knighton realized the need of ministering to those who were unable to come to church and the ministry grew out of this request. 

Initially, the ushers under the leadership of the late Sister Lillian Turner and deaconess under the leadership of the late Sister Rohelia R. Campbell were asked to take on the responsibility of visiting and fellowshipping with the residents of Sterling Place every fourth Saturday of each month at 10:00am.  The services last for 45 minutes including all elements of a regular church service except collection of an offering. 

Sister Lee Ella Collins is the present coordinator and Pastor Knighton assign a different associate minister each month to bring the message and the members make up the congregational choir.   Twice a year the residents are offered Holy Communion and  every Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas the residents are given gift baskets.   Before leaving the residents are given a handshake, hug or pat on the back.  If the residents have a testimony or special request, time is taken to listen to them or offer a  personal prayer on their behalf.  All members of the church are offered to attend and participate. The ministry consists of about 30 members that attend on a regular basis.