Location, location, location: Considering the JCM class site
Most things about the Jesus Cares Ministries (JCM) program of Faith Lutheran Church in Black River Falls, Wis., are pretty typical. But there is one thing that is different and it may be the future of JCM.
The program started like many JCM programs. A church member Mark Mueller volunteered to be the local program coordinator. A small group of church members volunteered to help out with snacks or crafts for the program.
Local group homes in the Black River Falls area were invited to attend JCM events held at Faith Lutheran Church. Four residents of one group home became regular attendees. When they didn’t show up, no one did. Not wanting to give up, Mark, a JCM program coordinator, brainstormed ideas with a JCM consultant.
“We know our community certainly has individuals that could benefit from a JCM program,” said Faith Pastor Joel Neumann. “Our goal is to reach out to them in whatever way possible and share God’s word.”
Now here’s the key difference, Mark changed the location of the classes from the church to the group home. Holding the JCM program at the group home made sense. The group home staff doesn’t have to worry about transportation of the residents. The residents feel more comfortable and therefore are more receptive to the lessons Mark is teaching. Mark had to obtain the proper permissions from the group home residents guardians to hold the meetings there.
“It’s been an interesting process to be a part of. It’s allowed my faith to grow, learning to trust that God will ensure that what needs to happen, happens,” Mark explained.
Typically JCM programs are held at a local church to allow JCM attendees to visit the church to gain familiarity and level of comfortable there. However, holding JCM classes in places like group homes is becoming another option.
“Having the option of moving a JCM program into a different location, whether it is a group home or community center, if it’s convenient and comfortable for the participants may become more and more common. If we have the flexibility to host at a group home, it can alleviate some of the stress of transportation and building accessibility,” said Joel Gaertner, Vice President of Ministry and National Director of Jesus Cares Ministries.
Interested in joining a Jesus Care Ministries program? Find a location near you, visit www.tlha.org.