It is a normal practice in Episcopal parishes to take the Altar flowers to the sick or shut-ins after Sunday services. Although the rector may be taking the flowers now, it could be suggested to him that an additional call by a layman would probably be greatly appreciated. This would also relieve the rector when he had other “must” tasks to do. From the standpoint of the layman, it would help them to realize they also have a ministry to others, especially those members of the parish family who are ill. Visits by lay people show those visited that they are missed and wanted.

If the women of the Altar Guild or other lay people are delivering f lowers satisfactorily now, it would probably be better for the Brother­hood Chapter to seek other ways to be of service.

There is certainly nothing complicated about taking Altar Flowers to the sick. It is advisable though in even simple jobs such as this to have a standard procedure and one person responsible for following through. One Brotherhood Chapter prepares a 6-month schedule of Brotherhood and other men who have agreed to participate, posting a copy on the bulletin board near the sacristy and giving a copy to each man. The Brotherhood man who is responsible for the project calls those scheduled several days in advance to remind them and make sure someone will be on hand. He also consults the rector on Sunday or prior to then, and writes the names and addresses of those to whom the flowers are to be taken on the schedule copy posted on the bulletin board.

In all cases, a card showing who the flowers are from (the Parish) and a copy of the Sunday Bulletin are included. In some instances special pamphlets are taken, as directed by the rector. It should be noted that on Christmas and Easter and perhaps weddings and other occasions, there will be extra flowers. In such cases, several men should be scheduled to minimize the burden.

Takers are not “required” to visit with patients but are encouraged to do so and most do.

Discuss with rector, agree on a plan and line up a group of men who are willing to do this. Enough men should be found so that individuals will not be called on more often than once a month, preferably only once every other month. An announcement calling for volunteers should be put in the Church Bulletin to let it be known that anyone is welcome to participate. However, it is usually necessary to ask specific men to get them. The Chapter referred to above has had no problem getting men to do this job because no man is called on more often than once every two months.

The visitors should be familiar with the How To Special Material: HINTS FOR VISITING THE SICK IN HOME OR HOSPITAL.

None.