Who We Are

Lifeboats Care Ministries is a pair of lay ministries within New River Church that reaches into the homes and hearts of those who are in need of tender care due to issues like illness, isolation, and grief. If you are, or if you know, someone in need, please reach out.

"Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." Galatians 6:2

Grief Support

We offer grief support services twice yearly in a small group education and discussion cycle of 13 sessions that teach coping skills and pain release through connection and reliance on Christ.

 "The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit" Psalm 34:18

We Come To You

Community means caring for our neighbors, elderly, disabled, and shut-ins. We show our love by stepping into homes, hospitals, and care facilities to visit, pray, and perform services to maintain a connection to the body of Christ. So none will feel forgotten.

 "The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'" Matthew 25:40

What is GriefShare?

No matter what the circumstances, grief is a painful process. We are hosting GriefShare, a grief support group for people dealing with the death of a family member or friend.
GriefShare is a safe, welcoming place where people understand the difficult emotions of grief. Over 13 weeks, you’ll find relief and comfort as you learn what to expect in the days ahead and how to navigate your personal grief process. Since there are no neat, orderly stages of grief, you’ll learn helpful ways of coping with grief, in all its unpredictability—and gain solid support each step of the way.
Topics include how to manage grief-related emotions such as loneliness, anxiety, sadness, anger, and regret; how to cope with the changes in your life and relationships; how to recognize what’s normal in grief; and what to do if you feel stuck or hopeless.
At a weekly GriefShare meeting, you will view a video featuring respected counselors, teachers, and healthcare professionals on grief-related topics. After that is a small-group discussion for sharing, support, and personal application of what you learned on the video. You will receive a book to take home filled with valuable exercises for navigating your personal grieving process.

Meet the team.

Julianne Mayberry

Administrator
I discovered how well the Lord had prepared me specifically to lead and assist the grieving through my life experiences, and I am privileged to witness the amazing growth of others through this transformative ministry.

Kim Weaver Payne

Facilitator
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Nikki Cooper

Facilitator
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Art Keller

Support Volunteer
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GriefShare is...

a 13 week session of group meetings with a video and guided group discussion designed to navigate grief.

A Small Group is...

no more than 12 for comfortable conversation that ensures everyone has a voice.

Our Calendar...

we hold two sessions per year. One each Fall and Spring. We take a summer sabbatical during which emergencies will be addressed. Reach out to us.

Location...

The sanctuary of our church has proven to be an excellent and comforting space for gathering.

Friendship Connection...

is a vital part of how GriefShare functions. The fellowship we share naturally fosters personal connections that can reach beyond the meetings and become support for our lives.

Memorial Celebration...

we hold a 14th meeting to signal cycle completion, during which we share a meal and personal memories, photos and significant items to honor our loved ones.

Visitation Ministry

Stepping into wherever you are.

Our visitation ministry aims to provide spiritual support and companionship to those in need; the elderly, homebound, hospitalized, or grieving individuals. Its purpose is to offer spiritual encouragement, emotional support, and practical help when needed, fostering community connection and a sense of belonging. Rooted in biblical teachings of service and love for others, visitation ministry strengthens relationships within the congregation, and supports pastoral care.



Recently we have been growing as a church and with growth the need for volunteers grows also.  Volunteering provides an opportunity to exercise mercy, hospitality, and encouragement, reflecting Christ’s example of personal, caring engagement. You are needed to meet the needs of our church community. If you are interested in joining our team please let us know through the form on our volunteer page.