The Bereavement Committee assists individuals in the St. Matthew Parish community who have experienced the death of a family member. The committee is prepared to make visits, lend books from its bereavement library, provide a listing of resources, say prayers, as well as simply listen and share from mutual experiences. The committee also delivers a "Green Bag" of items that families may find useful upon the arrival of extended family and friends. A "Mass of Remembrance" is scheduled in November to remember and pray for parish members and their family who have passed away. The committee meets as needed.
For information contact Anne Weber; 217-356-0375; aweber13@comcast.net
The Elizabeth Ministry is designed to reach out to women during special times of motherhood. Women can share experiences and concerns through personal visits at home or in the hospital. The ministry is also involved in pregnancy support, celebration of birth, post-miscarriage support, fertility issues, and infant/child crisis support.
For information contact Bobbie Jo Kirby; 217-607-1212; bjkirby97@gmail.com
If you would like a priest to visit you while in the hospital, contact the Parish Office.
For information contact Parish Office; 217-359-4224;
This ministry strives to improve upon the issues of accessibility and inclusion within St. Matthew Parish for those persons with disabilities. Participation in this ministry is open to all ages and abilities.
For information contact Melissa Hoerner; 217-355-6289; mahoerner@comcast.net
This is a ministry of Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist who bring the Eucharist to those who are confined to their homes or in nursing homes. They also share prayer and fellowship and bring any particular needs to the attention of the parish priests, staff or other ministries.
For information contact Jill Schneider; 217-356-9639;
The Parish Nurse Ministry focuses on the promotion of health related to the values, beliefs and practices of the faith community, its mission and ministry to its members. Emphasizing prevention and early intervention, parish nurses act as integrators of health and faith, health educators and counselors, referral advisors, advocates for healthcare and volunteer coordinators. Functions include providing information on medications, home safety, nutrition, specific care skills and acting as advocates and managers of health care at medical appointments. Partnering with pastoral care, parish nurses visit parishioners at select healthcare facilities providing spiritual care at Masses, Communion services and weekly Eucharistic nursing home rounds. To access the confidential parish nurse line, call the Parish Office.
For information contact Joanne Huff; 217-352-4471; jhuff@mailstation.com