To members of Forest Hills Mennonite Church, supporting one another during tough times is a matter of course. Cheryl Hollinger, Associate Pastor, explains that the congregation makes a practice of looking for ways to support an individual or family who is in crisis or who, like Gary Long, lives with circumstances that may require long-term attention. Together they design a support team, inviting members who would have expertise the family may need, such as a nurse, a financial advisor, a counselor, someone who is from the Sunday school class, etc.​

Gary, who lives with multiple sclerosis, has a support team that meets at least quarterly—more often if needed. The congregation-based team worked together with other committed friends of Gary and his wife Kris to purchase the accessible van that gives Gary freedom to get around and share his gifts with others.

In addition to the volunteering he does for Hospice, Gary is active in his congregation’s prayer ministry, praying with those who seek out the prayer room after Sunday worship. Two boys in the congregation enjoy his support in twice-a-week tutoring sessions. Though the recently acquired disability may some days tempt him to think he is sitting on the sidelines of life, it is clear that Gary has not been sitting on his hands.

Read Gary's perspective.

​Cheryl Hollinger is Associate Pastor for Forest Hills Mennonite Church. Christine Guth is ADN's Program Director.