We found our peers in church often included widows/widowers. God laid it on our hearts to make it a ministry to take our church widows and widowers out to lunch for socialization and fellowship. Being older, we could see what losing a spouse or having one who is disabled and needing care can do. Each week we call to see how many of our widows and widowers who attend New Salem are doing and to plan a lunch with them, about one a week. Sometimes we dine at their homes if they want to cook for us. At least twice a year, spring and fall, usually, we have a larger gathering, either in a private home or a local venue large enough for a dozen seniors plus at least one of our pastors, so everyone gets to know each other better.
widow and widowers ministry