Elizabeth Ministry in Peoria Parish Assists Parents and Children

Franciscan-run Holy Family Parish in Peoria, Illinois has something called the Elizabeth Ministry. Staffed by volunteers, the Elizabeth Ministry works with parishioners on all child related issues.

Whether they have given birth to a child, adopted a son or daughter, or suffered the sadness of a miscarriage, parishioners at Holy Family can count on support from their fellows at the Elizabeth Ministry. Parents with children also receive assistance from the Elizabeth Ministry. Volunteers help parents with everything from the preparation of meals to babysitting. They are available for dialogue as well. Sometimes parents needs to talk to another person who has gone through what they are dealing with that very moment.

One other beautiful ceremony that the Elizabeth Ministry maintains is the pregnancy blessing. Once a month, pregnant women and their families gather around the baptismal font at Holy Family for this important ritual that highlights the sacredness and wonder of life. Gina Betz is the Elizabeth Ministry contact person who can help arrange the blessings as well as bring volunteers together with people who need help.

(Source of image on homepage: wikipedia.org)