The Caregivers Ministry at White Oak

The Caregivers Ministry of White Oak is a homegrown ministry that has faithfully served our church and community for more than 30 years. It was organized on February 29, 1996, by Mary Lou Gordon, a retired nurse and member of White Oak, alongside Annie Ruth O'Neal and Pastor John Mark Batchelor.

From its beginning, the ministry has been guided by the words of Jesus in Matthew 22:37–40, where He gives the first and second great commandments. Our mission has always been rooted in loving God and loving our neighbors. As our original mission statement expresses:

"These commandments can be an inspiration and a guide for us. It is clear that we are to be God's agents of ministry. We must see through the eyes of God, hear through the ears of God, and indeed develop hearts that beat with the heart of God. Such actions will enable us to say to Jesus, 'I love You.' In ministering to others, one ministers to Christ."

Although the ministry has grown and leadership has changed over the years, these guiding principles have remained unchanged.

Today, we meet on the second Tuesday of each month to prepare and deliver meals to shut-ins from our church family and the surrounding community. Each visit provides an opportunity to share fellowship and encouragement while delivering a meal, the latest Acorn, the church bulletin, the current Prayer List, and a small goodie bag.

The Caregivers Ministry is currently led by our tri-chair team: Gene and Nancy Hannan, Mike and Pat Gordon, and Sherman and Cindy Batten. We gather at the Archer Lodge Community Center. Volunteers who would like to help prepare meals are welcome to arrive around 9:00 a.m., but you are welcome to join us at any time. Meal packaging begins at 11:00 a.m., and deliveries begin as soon as the meals are ready.

Once the delivery teams return to the Community Center, we enjoy a meal together, share fellowship, and hold a brief meeting.

We invite you to come see what the Caregivers Ministry is all about. If you feel called to serve, we would love to have you join our team. If you know someone in our church or community who could benefit from this ministry, please contact one of our ministry leaders or the church office.

Gene or Nancy Hannan (757-404-9221)

Mike or Pat Gordon (919-320-5167)

Sherman or Cindy Batten (919-603-8507)