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Find Care

We offer many ways for you to find Christian care for a number of life's struggles. On this page, you'll find resources for emergency care, prayer requests, individual care, and group care. In the event of an emergency, contact the pastor-on-call at 615.969.3086. Please leave a message, and a pastor will call you back within 10-15 minutes.

There are also many ways to provide Christian care to our friends and neighbors in need. Learn more about ways you can serve.

Emergency Care

+ Pastor On Call

If you’re in need of urgent pastoral care (death of a family member, emergency hospitalizations, or other crises), please call the pastor-on-call at 615.969.3086. Leave a message, and a pastor will return your call within 10-15 minutes.

+ Emergency Financial and Food Assistance

Please call 615.324.8205 for further information.

+ Domestic Violence

If you or someone you love is a victim of domestic violence, you are not alone. The YWCA 24-hour Crisis + Support Helpline is available 24/7 at 1.800.334.4628 or by texting 615.983.5170.

Prayer Requests

Online prayer requests are shared with the pastoral team and, when indicated, with the email prayer team. Click the button below to fill out our online prayer request and let us know how we can be in prayer for you. Public prayer requests are included in each week's prayer concerns for our church community to prayer over. In the event of an emergency, contact the pastor-on-call at 615.969.3086. Please leave a message, and a pastor will call you back.
Request prayer

Pastoral Care

If you are struggling and think you would benefit from one-on-one or group pastoral care, one of our pastors would be glad to connect with you. Let us know what's going on, and a pastor will follow up soon. These requests are confidential and will only be shared with our clergy.
Request pastoral care

Confidential Stephen Ministry Care Request

Stephen Ministers are not ordained pastors or counselors. Rather, they are specially trained lay persons who are gifted listeners and are available to walk with you during difficult times. Sometimes our pastors will recommend a Stephen Minister (male Stephen Ministers are assigned to men and female Stephen Ministers to women) to those who are struggling and in need of continuing, confidential, one-to-one care. The service is free and offered with no obligation. To learn more about Stephen Ministry at BUMC, click here.

Request Stephen Minister

Caring Resources

The information in the dropdowns has been provided by the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection.

  • Abuse

    Information

    • Abusers have often grown up in homes where abuse has occurred.
    • When you ask God the “Why” question, recognize that in God’s giving human beings the power/freedom of choice, there is the great potential for good, but there is also the tragic and horrific possibility for evil.
    • Talk out loud with a trusted confidant about your feelings. Be honest about all your feelings. Working through how you will choose to respond to those feelings is important.


    Scriptures


    Prayer

    Lord, give me the grace to be honest: honest about my pain, honest about my feelings, honest about my anger and honest about my questions. Will You lead me, God, to trusted friends, pastors and counselors who can help me to do this? God, give me a conscious awareness of your never-absent presence and remind me that I am a beloved child of yours. Help me to remember I am worthy of your love. In the name and by the love of Jesus Christ I pray this. Amen.


    Suggested Reading

    • Keeping the Faith: Guidance for Christian Women Facing Abuse by Rev. Marie Fortune (HarperCollins, 1995)
    • Violence in Families: What Every Christian Needs to Know by Rev. Al Miles (Augsburg Books, 2002)
    • Sexual Assault: Will I Ever Feel Okay Again? By Kay Scott (Bethany House, 1993)
    • How Then Shall We Live by Wayne Mueller (Bantam Books, 1996)
    • Helping Victims of Sexual Abuse by Lynn Heitritter & Jeanetta Vought (Bethany House, 2006)
    • Disappointment with God by Phillip Yancey (Zondervan, 1988)


    Resources

  • Addiction

    Information

    • There is a need for the person struggling with addiction to have the will to recover. The addict’s ownership of the problem and intention to begin to recover has to come first.
    • Acknowledge the dependence on alcohol and drugs.
    • The addiction has a purpose of protecting or taking care of wounding underneath. There are people to walk alongside on this journey.
    • You have the ability to have a new life.


    Scriptures


    Suggested Reading

    • Intervention: How to Help Someone Who Doesn’t Want Help by Vernon Johnson (Hazelden, 1986)
    • Life’s Healing Choices: Freedom from Your Hurts, Hang-ups and Habits by John Baker (Howard, 2007)
    • Addict in the Family: Stories of Loss, Hope and Recovery by Beverly Conyers (Hazelden, 2003)
    • Codependent No More: How to Stop Controlling Others and Start Caring for Yourself by Melody Beattie (Hazelden, 1986)
    • The Alcoholics Anonymous Big Book [4th Edition] by AA Services (AA World Services, 2002)


    Resources

    • BUMC hosts AA groups each Monday through Saturday. Scroll down this page to find the list of offerings under Group Care.
    • Alcoholics Anonymous
    • Narcotics Anonymous
    • Al Anon — Offering strength and hope for friends and families of problem drinkers.

  • Anger

    Information

    • Anger is a symptom that points to some hurt in your life.
    • To find healing for that anger:
      1. When you get angry, ask “Why does this of all things make me so angry?”
      2. Follow that question until you find the wound that you tend to lock up.
      3. Ask Jesus in prayer to heal that pain.
      4. Schedule an appointment with a pastor and possibly a therapist to talk about it.
      5. The goal is not to erase the hurt, but to recognize it and find better ways of finding healing for it than getting angry.
    • Counting to ten or giving space to oneself can be helpful when enraged.


    Scriptures

    • James 1:19 — Be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger.
    • Ephesians 4:29-32 — Put away bitterness, wrath and anger. Forgive as Christ forgave you.
    • Hebrews 12:14-15 — Make every effort to live in peace with all, see that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble.


    Prayer

    Savior Jesus, my anger has not provided the healing, respect, and intimacy that I want. Forgive me for the ways that I have hurt others. I place the hurt that is causing my anger in your hands. Heal me Lord Jesus. I need you. Amen.
     

    Suggested Reading

    • The Angry Book by Theodore Rubin (Touchstone, 1998)
    • Anger by Gary Chapman (Northfield, 2007)
    • The Art of Forgiving by Lewis Smedes (Ballantine, 1997)

  • Anxiety

    Information

    • Name the things that cause you anxiety.
    • Listen to the anxiety – what is the root cause? What wisdom and instruction is important to me?
    • Fear differs from anxiety. Legitimate fears have an object, but obsessive worry can cause unhealthy anxiety.
    • Believe you are a child of God and that you are loved.


    Scriptures

    • Philippians 4:4-6 — Peace passing understanding.
    • Matthew 6:25-34 — Do not worry.
    • Genesis 1:31 — God saw all that he had made and it was very good.
    • Isaiah 43:1-5 — Do not fear, for I have redeemed you: I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you.
    • 1 Peter 5:7-11 — Cast all your anxiety on God; God cares for you.
    • Ephesians 3:20 — God is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine.
    • 1 John 4:16-21 — There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear.
    • Romans 8:26-28 — Nothing separates us from the love of God.
    • Proverbs 3:5-6 — Trust in the Lord and not on your own understanding.


    Prayer

    The Serenity Prayer:

    God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to distinguish the one from the other. Amen.

    Suggested Reading

    • Embracing the Fear: Learning to Manage Anxiety and Panic Attacks by Judith Bemis and AMR Barrada (Hazelden, 1994)
    • Fearless Relationships: Simple Rules for Lifelong Contentment by Karen Casey (Hazelden, 2003)
    • Paths to Prayer: Finding Your Own Way to the Presence of God by Patricia D. Brown (Jossey-Bass, 2003)


    Resources

  • Caregiving

    Information

    • At some point, each of us will be called upon to be involved in the care for an aging family member. Rosalynn Carter once said, “there are only four kinds of people in the world – those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers.” (From And Thou Shalt Honor).
    • It’s a very difficult job, yet is filled with joy in knowing that we are reaching out with love, mercy and compassion to others in need.


    Scriptures

    • Colossians 3:23-24 — Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart and you will receive an inheritance from the Lord.
    • Matthew 25:31-40 — Whatever you did for one of the least of these, you did for me.
    • 1 Corinthians 15:58 — Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord.
    • Hebrews 6:1-10 — God will not forget your work as you have helped his people and continue to help them.
    • Psalm 119:105 — Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
    • Philippians 4:11 — Content with whatever the circumstances.
    • Deuteronomy 31:8 — The Lord goes before you and will be with you.
    • Psalm 121 — My help comes from the Lord.
    • John 16:33 — You may have peace in this world.
    • Psalm 46 — God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble.
    • Psalm 27:4-5 ­— Dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.
    • Exodus 20:12 — Honor your mother and father.
    • Matthew 7:7-8 — Ask, seek, knock.
    • Psalm 55:22 — Cast your cares on the Lord.
    • Isaiah 35:3-4 — Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees; be strong and do not fear.


    Prayer

    Gracious, Holy God, you have called me to this task for such a time as this, to enter into this caregiving journey with my loved one. Lord, it’s not easy when the work of the day extends to all twenty four hours, when I wonder if I’ll ever rest again. Lord, strengthen me for what lies ahead. I’m often afraid it will never end, and at the same time I’m afraid it will. Give me peace and rest; courage and compassion. Lord, I pray for others who are helping me. May they feel blessed in this time and not feel burdened. I pray for my loved one who is experiencing this dependence on my care. May they know that you are with them, your Holy Spirit is surrounding them, and your peace that passes all understanding. In Christ I pray. Amen.

    Suggested Reading

    • The Caregiver’s Survival Handbook by Alexis Abramson (Berkley, 2004)
    • 124 Prayers for Caregivers by J. Guntzelman (Ligouri, 2003)
    • The 36-Hour Day by Nany Mace and Peter Rabins (Johns Hopkins University Press, 1981)


    Resources

  • Chronic Illness

    Information

    • Focus on the treatment opportunities.
    • Find joy in the adversity when possible.
    • Love the physical part of yourself that carries the cancer or other chronic illness. Take care of it.
    • For supporters, be with your loved one where they are – whether in pain or in encouragement.


    Scriptures


    Prayer

    Lord, you said that when we walk through the water, you will be with us; we are precious in your sight and you love us. In this time of health trial and adversity, I need your presence more than ever. Lord, some days I feel hard pressed on every side, but with you at my side I do not feel crushed. Struck down at times, but not destroyed. This disease makes me feel like I don’t have any control. Lord, give me strength and courage, hold me in the palm of your hand, and give me peace. Amen.

    Suggested Reading

    • Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Thomas Nelson, Inc., 2004)
    • Jesus Lives by Sarah Young (Thomas Nelson, Inc., 2004)
    • Looking Up While Lying Down by J.E. Biegert (Pilgrim Press, 2004)
    • The Will of God by Leslie Weatherhead (Abingdon Press, 1999)
    • What About Divine Healing? By Susan Sonnenday Vogel (Abingdon Press, 2004)


    Resources

  • Death of a Child

    Information

    • Recognize that you are experiencing pain and heartache that is unique. You have lost a child; but as traumatic as that is, you have also experienced the sudden shattering of hopes and dreams for a love that you have been anticipating for a long time.
    • Recognize that fathers and mothers may feel very similar pain and expressions of grief BUT they may also have very different and (seemingly) extreme variance of emotion and feelings – know that this is normal.
    • Talk out loud with a trusted confidant (or journal) about the feelings you’re experiencing.
    • Know that you are not alone in this incredible trauma and seek all means to find those who have walked this road, who will listen and share openly with you about their own journey.
    • Recognize God’s heart breaks with yours and resist any notion or suggestion that the loss of your child – in any way – fits within the plan and will of God.
    • The message of Easter does directly speak to your pain. For in Easter – in Resurrection – God has forever overpowered death with eternal life. Death DOES NOT get the last word in your child’s life!


    Scriptures

    • Psalm 23 — The Lord is my shepherd; when I walk through the valley of the shadow of death.
    • Isaiah 43:1-3 — Do not fear for I have redeemed you, I have called you by name and you are mine.
    • Romans 8 — Nothing separates us from the love of God.
    • 1 Corinthians 15 — The Hope of the Resurrection.
    • John 14:1-7 — Jesus goes to prepare a place for you.
    • Revelation 21 — A vision of the new heaven and the new earth.


    Prayer

    Lord be to me what you promise in Psalm 23. I need your grace and strength in order to want to move forward; I need the faith to believe you. I am angry with you. But I also need the ability that you alone can give to know that my child is in your eternal care. Lord, help me be honest about my feelings and keep me from the tendency to choose bitterness and resentment. Give me the grace to take one day at a time and commit each feeling to you. Heal my pain and give me the grace, patience and faith to trust in you for however long that takes. Help me choose forgiveness wherever it’s needed. Above all, own me with the promise of the Resurrection and salvation’s gift that one day I will hold and love with my child in you…eternally. Amen.

    Suggested Reading

    • Lament for a Son by Nicholas Wolterstorff (Eerdmans, 1987)
    • And Then Mark Died by Susan Sonnenday Vogel (Abingdon Press, 1999)
    • Life After the Death of My Son by Dennis Apple (Beacon Hill, 2008)
    • Healing after Loss: Daily Meditations for Working through Grief by Martha Whitmore Hickman (Harper, 1999)
    • The Will of God by Leslie Weatherhead (Abingdon Press, 1999)


    Resources

  • Depression

    Information

    • Listen to understand the message of the depression. It’s trying to tell you something.
    • It is very important to break the cycle of negative rumination that is part of depression.
    • Helpful tools to combat depression: exercise, Omega-3s, sunshine, social activity, sleep, and diet.


    Scriptures

    • Jeremiah 29:11 — I know the plans I have for you, plans to give you hope and a future.
    • Proverbs 2:3-5 — Cry out for insight and for understanding.
    • Psalm 13:1-3 — How long will you hide your face? How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and sorrow in my heart?
    • Psalm 34:18 — The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
    • Psalm 56 — In God I trust, I will not be afraid.
    • Philippians 4:13-14 — I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me.
    • Job 19:7-10 — Job’s depression.
    • Luke 1:13 — Do not be afraid, your prayer has been heard.
    • Isaiah 43:1-2, 5, 18-19 — When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; Do not be afraid for I am with you.


    Suggested Reading

    • The Depression Cure by Dr. Steven Ilardi (De Capo Lifelong Books, 2010)
    • Reaching for the Invisible God by Philip Yancey (Zondervan, 2002)
    • The Freedom from Depression Workbook by Les Carter and Frank Minirth (Thomas Nelson, 1995)
    • The Depression Workbook: A Guide for Living with Depression and Manic Depression by Mary Ellen Copeland (New Harbinger, 2001)
    • I Don’t Walk to Talk about It: Overcoming the Secret Legacy of Male Depression by Terrence Real (Scribner, 1998)
    • When Someone You Love Suffers from Depression or Mental Illness: Daily Encouragement by Cecil Murphey (Beacon Hill, 2004)


    Resources

  • Divorce

    Information

    • Divorce is a painful split. Dating immediately following a divorce can stifle the healing you need as you try to find healing in another person.
    • You will need to eventually forgive, for your sake. Forgiveness blesses you as you release the control the ex-spouse has over your feelings.
    • Parents: During a divorce, do not parentify your kids of all ages, treating them as your caregiver (parent) or as your best buddy instead of your kids. Make space for your kids of all ages to share their pain even if their pain causes you hurt or guilt. They need you.


    Scriptures

    • Philippians 3:12-15 — Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead.
    • Genesis 1:31 — Your worth is not tied to your marital status. As your creation, God called you “very good.”
    • Luke 7:36-50 — Jesus forgives a woman in the city.
    • Luke 13:10-17 — Jesus heals a bent over woman.
    • Luke 18:35-43 — Jesus heals a blind beggar.


    Prayer

    God of infinite love and understanding, pour out your healing. Where there is hurt or bitterness, grant healing of memories and the ability to put behind the things that are past. Where feelings of despair or worthlessness flood in, nurture the spirit of hope and confidence that by your grace tomorrow can be better than yesterday. Where I look within and discover faults that have contributed to the destruction of my marriage and have hurt other people, grant forgiveness for what is past and growth in all that makes for new life. In Christ’s Name I pray. Amen.

    Suggested Reading

    • Radical Recovery: Transforming the Despair of Your Divorce Into an Unexpected Good by Suzy Brown (Acu/Lefwood, 2007)
    • 28 Days of Prayer by Mary Redding (Upper Room, 2014)
    • The Land Between by Jeff Manion (Zondervan, 2010)


    Resources

  • Eating Disorder

    Information

    • Explore the relationship of control in your life.
    • Admitting there is a problem is the first step. Treatment is the second step.
    • Who is your support system?


    Scriptures


    Prayer

    O God, help me to see myself the way you see me. Guide me on this journey so that I may have great healing and health all the days of my life. In Christ’s Name I pray. Amen.

    Suggested Reading

    • Brave Girl Eating: A Family’s Struggle with Anorexia by Harriet Brown (William Morrow, 2010)
    • Wanting to Be Her: Body Image Secrets Victoria Won’t Tell You by Michelle Graham (IVP Books, 2005)
    • Hope, Help and Healing for Eating Disorders: A Whole-Person Approach to Treatment of Anorexia, Bulimia, and Disordered Eating by Gregory Jantz (WaterBrook Press, 2010)
    • Made to Crave: Satisfying Your Deepest Desire with God, Not Food by Lysa TerKeurst (Zondervan, 2010)


    Suggested Reading for Teens

    • Perfectly Unique: Praising God from Head to Foot by Annie F. Downs (Zondervan, 2012)
    • More than Skin Deep: A Guide to Self & Soul by Crystal Kirgiss (Zondervan, 2011)
    • Picture Perfect: What You Need to Feel Better about Your Body by Jill Zimmerman Rutledge (Health Communications, 2007)
    • Made to Crave for Young Women: Satisfying Your Deepest Desires with God by Lysa TerKeurst (Zondervan, 2012)

    Suggested Reading for Tweens (9-12 years)

    • Body Talk by Nancy Rue (Zondervan, 2007)


    Resources

  • Employment and Financial Support

    Information

    • In today’s job market, many individuals find themselves underemployed or unemployed.
    • Many experience low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, or feel lost with no direction.
    • Several face the struggle of making ends meet financially.
    • Most need some type of emotional and spiritual support.
    • There are numerous resources and information available to assist job seekers.


    Employment Prayer

    Gracious God, I turn to you seeking your divine help and guidance as I look for suitable employment. I need your wisdom to guide my footsteps along the right path, and to lead me to find the proper things to say and do in this quest. I wish to use the gifts and talents you have given me, but I need to do so with gainful employment. Do not abandon me in this search, but rather grant me this favor I seek so that I may return to you with praise and thanksgiving for your gracious assistance. Grant this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

    Scriptures

    • Psalm 56 — In God I trust, I will not be afraid.
    • Proverbs 2:3-5 — Cry out for insight and for understanding.
    • Luke 1:13 — Do not be afraid, your prayer has been heard.
    • Isaiah 43:1-2, 5, 18-19 — When you pass through these waters, I will be with you; Do not be afraid for I am with you.


    Resources

  • Facing Death: For Patients and Families

    Scriptures


    Prayer

    Gracious God, in this time of change and challenge, fear and uncertainty, I ask that you be with me. Lord, I am assured that you prepare a place for me in heaven. Remain with me, surround me with your peace, and comfort me. Holy God, walk with me all the way through the dark valley into your glorious light. I pray for my family and friends, that you will comfort them and give them strength for this and every journey. May I be free of pain and anxiety, always lifting my eyes toward heaven where you will be waiting to welcome me home. Amen.

     

    Suggested Reading

    • Final Gifts: Understanding the Special Awareness, Needs and Communications of the Dying by Maggie Callanan (Bantam Books, 2012)
    • Final Journeys: A Practical Guide for Bringing Care and Comfort at the End of Life by Maggie Callanan (Bantam Books, 2009)
    • Looking Up While Lying Down by J.E. Biegert (Pilgrim Press, 2004)
    • May I Walk You Home by Joyce Rupp (Ave Maria Press, 2009)
    • Grieving a Beginner’s Guide by Jerusha Hull McCormack (Paraclete Press, 2006)
    • When the One You Love is Gone by Rebekah Miles (Abingdon Press, 2012)
    • Lose, Love, Live: The Spiritual Gifts of Loss and Change by Dan Moseley (Upper Room Books, 2011)


    Resources

  • Grief

    Information

    • Grief includes a sadness, which is unique and a natural response toward loss.
    • Talk out loud with a trusted confidant (or journal) about the feelings you’re experiencing.
    • Above all, remember that through the unconditional love of Jesus Christ, we are Easter people and we are people of the Resurrection.


    Scriptures

    • Psalm 23 — The Lord is my shepherd; when I walk through the valley of the shadow of death.
    • Isaiah 43:1-3 — Do not fear for I have redeemed you, I have called you by name and you are mine.
    • Romans 8 — Nothing separates us from the love of God.
    • 1 Corinthians 15 — The Hope of the Resurrection.
    • John 14:1-7 — Jesus goes to prepare a place for you.
    • Revelation 21 — A vision of the new heaven and the new earth.


    Prayer

    Lord be to me what you promise in Psalm 23. I need Your grace and strength in order to want to move forward; I need the faith to believe you and I need the ability that you alone can give to release my loved one to your eternal care. Lord, help me be honest about my feelings and keep me from the tendency to choose bitterness and resentment. Give me the grace to take one day at a time and commit each feeling and memory to your eternal care. Help me to celebrate and live into the good memories without those causing me pain and help me to choose forgiveness wherever it’s needed. Above all, own me with the promise of the Resurrection and salvation’s gift of one day seeing my loved one again…eternally. Amen.

    Suggested Reading

    • I Wasn’t Ready to Say Goodbye: Surviving, Coping and Healing after the Sudden Death of a Loved Oneby Brook Noel and Pamela D. Blair (Sourcebooks, 2008)
    • Healing After Loss: Daily Meditations for Working through Grief by Martha Whitmore Hickman (Harper, 1999)
    • The Will of God by Leslie Weatherford (Abingdon Press, 1999)
    • I’m Grieving As Fast As I Can: How Young Widows and Widowers Can Cope and Heal by Linda Feinberg (New Horizon, 1994)
    • Getting to the Other Side of Grief: Overcoming the Loss of a Spouse by Susan J. Zonnerbelt-Smeege and Robert C. De Vries (Baker, 1998)
    • Good Grief by Granger E. Westberg (Fortress, 2010)
    • When Grief Breaks Your Heart by James W. Moore (Abingdon Press, 1999)
    • Lament for a Son by Nicholas Wolterstorff (Eerdmans, 1987)
    • And Then Mark Died by Susan Sonnenday Vogel (Abingdon Press, 1999)
    • Life After the Death of My Son by Dennis Apple (Beacon Hill, 2008)


    Suggested Reading for Children

    • Fall of Freddie the Leaf by Leo Buscaglia (Slack, 1982)
    • What’s Heaven? By Maria Shriver (St. Martin’s Press, 2007)
    • Water Bugs and Dragonflies: Explaining Death to Young Children by Doris Stickney (Pilgrim Press, 1997)


    Resources

  • Grieving a Suicide

    Information

    • The United Methodist Church believes that nothing, including suicide, can separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:38-39).
    • Talk out loud with a trusted confidant (or journal) about the feelings you’re experiencing.
    • Remember that, above all, through the unconditional love of Jesus Christ, we are Easter people and we are people of the Resurrection.


    Scriptures

    • John 10:28 — I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand.
    • Romans 8:38-39 — Nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
    • John 3:16 — Everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.
    • Psalm 34:18 — The Lord is near to the broken hearted and saves the crushed in spirit.


    Prayer

    Dear God, during this time of deep grief and bitter sorrow may I lift my eyes to you. God I pray that you may be near to me and not forsake me to feelings of despair. God of life, despite the anger that I feel because of such an unexpected loss, I desperately ask for your peace to fill my heart. I know that nothing can separate your love from us God, not even suicide. Lord, I pray that I may have a genuine confidence and hope in the promise of resurrection found in your word. Holy Spirit, come and bind up my broken heart. My hope is in you, Lord. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

     

    Suggested Reading

    • Why? By Adam Hamilton (Abingdon Press, 2018)
    • Take the Dimness of My Soul Away: Healing After a Loved One’s Suicide by William A. Ritter (Morehouse Publishing, 2004)
    • No Time to Say Goodbye: Surviving the Suicide of a Loved One by Carla Fine (Main Street Books, 2011)
    • Grieving a Suicide: A Loved One’s Search for Answers, Comfort and Hope by Albert Y. Hsu (IVP, 2017)
    • After Suicide: A Ray of Hope for Those Left Behind by Eleanora Betsy Ross (De Capo Lifelong Books, 2009)

     

    Resources

  • Infertility

    Information

    • Today one in six couples (15%) are infertile.
    • Women struggling with infertility have depression scores that are indistinguishable from those of women with cancer, heart disease and hypertension. The psychological toll of infertility cannot be underestimated.
    • Infertility is the inability to conceive after trying for 12 months.
    • Primary infertility is the inability to have a live birth of your first child. Secondary infertility is the inability to have a live birth of a child after having a child.


    Scriptures


    Prayer

    Creator God, you are the giver of life. Help us to become parents. Guide us through this time. Give comfort to our hearts and hope to our souls. Help us to see you amid this time in our lives. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.

    Suggested Reading

    • Hannah’s Hope: Seeking God’s Heart in the Midst of Infertility, Miscarriage, and Adoption Loss by Jennifer Saake (NavPress, 2005)
    • When Empty Arms Become a Heavy Burden: Encouragement for Couples Facing Infertility by Sandra Glahn and William Cutrer (Kregel Publications, 2010)
    • The Infertility Companion: Hope and Help for Couples Facing Infertility by Sandra Glahn and William Cutrer (Zondervan, 2004)
    • Empty Womb, Aching Heart: Hope and Help for Those Struggling with Infertility by Marlo Schalesky (Bethany House, 2001)

  • Infidelity

    Information

    • Stop all communication and contact with the person outside the marriage.
    • Be transparent with your spouse.
    • There is an opportunity for temptation, sin, repentance, and grace.
    • There is a path to healing and forgiveness.
    • Create ground rules within the marriage.
    • Rebuilding trust takes time.


    Scriptures


    Prayer

    God, with such uncertainty, it is hard to know what to believe and which way to turn. We want to trust, we want to heal, we want to move forward, but we need your guidance. Give us courage to seek after the truth, strength to endure the road ahead, and hope for the freedom that will one day come. May all of these things encourage us to be faithful, in our words, in our actions, and in our devotion to you. Amen.

    Suggested Reading

    • After the Affair by Janis Abrahms Spring (Harper, 1997)
    • What’s So Amazing About Grace? By Philip Yancey (Zondervan, 1998)


    Resources

  • Marriage Building

    Information

    • Examine your own “stuff” rather than focusing on your spouse’s contributions
    • Write down all the things you love about your spouse.
    • View your spouse compassionately: “We must learn to regard people less in light of what they do or omit to do, and more in the light of what they suffer.” – Dietrich Bonhoeffer
    • Helpful practices: Come to church together. Pray before meals together. Honor each other by listening to the other. Plan date nights. Bless your spouse one time per day without expectation.


    Scriptures


    Prayer

    Lord God, we very much desire to keep the vows we made before you to remain together until we are parted by death. But we are in a season when that doesn’t seem easy. We value the life we have made together and want it to be better than it is. Remind me to look for the good in my partner and to be honest about my shortcomings. We ask your help in making us better people and a better couple. Amen.

    Suggested Reading

    • Love to Stay: Sex, Grace and Commitment by Adam Hamilton (Abingdon Press, 2013)
    • Boundaries in Marriage by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend (Zondervan, 2002)
    • The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman (Northfield Press, 2010)
    • His Needs, Her Needs by Willard F. Harley Jr. (Revell, 2001)
    • How to Act Right When Your Spouse Acts Wrong by Leslie Vernick (Water Brook, 2009)
    • Passionate Marriage: Keeping Love and Intimacy Alive in Committed Relationships by David Schnarch, Ph.D. (Norton, 2009)
    • The Love Dare by Steven and Alex Kendrick (B&H Books, 2008)

     

    Resources

  • Miscarriage

    Information

    • Miscarriage is losing a fetus before it is able to survive independently, usually any time prior to 28 weeks.
    • Recognize that fathers and mothers may feel very similar pain and expressions of grief BUT they may also have very different and (seemingly) extreme emotions.


    Scriptures


    Prayer

    Lifegiving God, we do not understand why this life which we had hoped to bring into this world is now gone from us. We only know that where there was sweet expectation, now there is bitter disappointment; where there were hope and excitement, there was a sense of failure and loss. We have seen how fragile life is and nothing can replace this life, this child, whom we have loved before seeing, before feeling it stirring in the womb. In our pain and confusion we look to you O Lord in whom no life is without meaning. Give us your compassion. In Christ’s Name we pray. Amen.

    Suggested Reading

    • Hannah’s Hope: Seeking God’s Heart in the Midst of Infertility, Miscarriage, and Adoption Loss by Jennifer Saake (NavPress, 2005)

  • Parenting

    Information

    • Spend time playing and talking with your kids or teenagers. This allows the needed discipline for your child/teen to be based on a foundation of love.
    • You are the parent, not their buddy.
    • Boundaries set expectations for ways you will be treated as parent and they will be treated as child. Discipline is used best to enforce those boundaries.
    • Discipline is not about punishment (making son or daughter feel pain for their wrong). Discipline is about teaching consequences.
    • Consequences for actions should be RSVP.
      • Reasonable and Related to Disobedience – i.e. take cell phone away for a month for talking at night when they should have been asleep.
      • Simple – i.e. “if you wreck the car, you can drive it again when you have paid for the repairs.”
      • Valuable – i.e. ground them from something that they value
      • Practical – i.e. if they forget to set the alarm, you don’t ground them from going to school that day. Instead, their bedtime is an hour earlier the next night.


    Scripture


    Prayer

    Parenting God, Thank you for your unconditional love and for the times you disciplined me out of that love. Help me to be that kind of parent for my kids. It is hard work, but I know that you are with me. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

    Suggested Reading

    • Boundaries with Kids by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend (Zondervan, 2001)
    • Positive Discipline by Jane Nelsen, Ed.D. (Ballantine, 2006)
    • Parent Talk: How to Talk to Your Kids in Language that Builds Self Esteem and Encourages Responsibility by Chick Moorman (Fireside, 2003)
    • Emotionally Intelligent Parenting: How to Raise a Self-Disciplined, Responsible, Socially Skilled Child by Maurice Elias, et.al (Three Rivers Press, 2000)


    Resources

  • Pornography

    Information

    • The use of pornography is almost always an issue related to intimacy and how it has been impaired for a person. An inability to achieve genuine closeness leads to artificial closeness offered by porn.
    • The argument that says, “What’s the problem? No one gets hurt” is not true. It hurts the person who is viewing pornography.
    • Find accountability.


    Scriptures


    Prayer

    O God, who listens when I pray. Help me to cleanse myself from the use of pornography. Help me to not be ashamed but to receive the help I need. Help me to build meaningful relationships. Guide me in this time. In Christ’s name. Amen.

    Suggested Reading

    • Out of the Shadows by Patrick Carnes (Hazeldon, 2001)
    • Ashamed No More: A Pastor’s Journey through Sex Addiction by T.C. Ryan (IVP Books, 2012)
    • Mending a Shattered Heart: A Guide for Partners of Sex Addicts by Stefanie Carnes (Gentle Path Press, 2001)


    Resources

     

  • Rape

    Facts

    • It is not your fault.
    • You are made in the image of God.
    • You are not alone.


    Scriptures

    • Psalm 30 — Joy comes with the morning. You have turned my mourning into dancing.
    • Psalm 23 — God is with you in the midst of the valley.
    • Isaiah 43:1-3 — Do not fear, for I have redeemed you.
    • Psalm 57:1 — I take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the storms pass by.
    • Psalm 71:20-21 — You will revive and comfort me once again.
    • Psalm 147:3 — God heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
    • Psalm 126:5-6 — May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy.


    Prayer

    Lord, give me the grace to be honest: honest about my pain, honest about my feelings, honest about my anger and honest about my questions. Will you lead me, God, to trusted friends, pastors and counselors who can help me get through this? God, give me a conscious awareness of your never-absent presence and remind me that I am a beloved child of yours. Help me to remember I am worthy of your love. In the name and by the love of Jesus Christ I pray this. Amen.

    Suggested Reading

    • Little Girl Lost: One Woman’s Journey Beyond Rape by Leisha Joseph (Galilee, 1999)


    Resources

  • Self-esteem

    Facts

    • You are made in the image of God.


    Scriptures

    • Genesis 1:31 — God saw all that he had made and it was very good.
    • 1 John 4 — You are from God, recognize the Spirit of truth and God’s love.
    • Luke 13:10-17 — Jesus heals the bent over woman.
    • Isaiah 43:1-7 — You are called by name and you are God’s.
    • Luke 12:6-7 — You are of more value than sparrows, yet not one is forgotten in God’s sight.
    • Psalm 139 — You are fearfully and wonderfully made.
    • Psalm 94:19 — When the cares of my heart are many, your consolations cheer my soul.
    • Romans 15:13 — May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may overflow with hope by power of the Holy Spirit.


    Prayer

    Lord, you have created me. Give me a conscious awareness of your never-absent presence and remind me that I am a beloved child of yours. Help me to remember I am worthy of your love. In the name and by the love of Jesus Christ I pray this. Amen.

    Suggested Reading

    • Life of the Beloved: Spiritual Living in a Secular World by Henri Nouwen (Crossroad, 2002)
    • Praying for Purpose for Women by Katie Brazelton (Zondervan, 2008)

  • Suicidal Thoughts

    Information

    • Contemplating suicide can be the result of untreated depression or untreated pain and suffering.
    • If you’re suicidal, by reading this card there is a part of you seeking help.
    • Seek help immediately.


    Scriptures

    • Deuteronomy 30:19-20 — Choose life so that you and your descendants may live, loving the Lord your God, obeying Him, and holding fast to Him.
    • Deuteronomy 31:8 — It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not fail you or forsake you.
    • Psalm 40:1-3 — I waited patiently for the Lord; he inclined to me and heard my cry.
    • Psalm 139:14 — I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.
    • Romans 8:35 — Who will separate us from the love of Christ?
    • Psalm 23 — Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death…you are with me.
    • John 10:10 — I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.


    Prayer

    Living God, open my heart so that your Spirit may be with me now. My God, I feel forsaken and alone. My heart is searching for a peace that I feel is unattainable in my life now. Lord, I pray that you may grant me your peace and that I may not lean on the world for happiness, acceptance, or healing, but that I may lean on you. Lord I am walking through the valley of the shadow of death. My God, do not forsake me. Give me your peace that in turn may set my life at peace. Christ came that I may have abundant life. Not only in the hereafter, but also in the here and now. Lord, build up in me a courageous spirit so that I may fight for life and seek the fellowship of others during this difficult time. I choose life, Lord. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

    Suggested Reading

    • Let Your Life Speak: Listening for the Voice of Vocation by Parker Palmer (Jossey-Bass, 1999)


    Resources

Individual Care

  • Births + Adoptions

    Births and adoptions are listed in our worship service bulletins. The Sunday following a birth, a rosebud is placed on the baptismal font in honor of a newborn child. In the event of a birth or adoption to a church member’s family, please contact Misty Roper, Congregational Care Administrative Support, at mroper@bumc.net.

    Learn More

  • BUMC Counseling Center

    Independent counseling center on the BUMC campus

    The BUMC Counseling Center is a unique collaboration between Brentwood United Methodist Church and psychotherapists in private practice. The therapists at the BUMC Counseling Center are not employees of the church. They were recruited to relocate their practices to the Counseling Center in order to support BUMC's commitment to making mental health resources available for children, youth, adults, couples, and families in Williamson County and the surrounding communities.

    Learn More

  • Care When You Are Sick

    Prayer before surgery, hospital visits, rehab visits, hospice care, prayer shawls

    NOTICE: Due to HIPAA laws, hospitals do not inform the church when its members are admitted. If a member is scheduled to have surgery, is hospitalized, being moved to a rehab facility, or transitioning to hospice care, please fill out a prayer request form.  In the case of an emergency on the weekend or after regular church office hours, contact the pastor-on-call at 615.969.3086. Please leave a message, and a pastor will call you back.

     
    Prayer Before Surgery

    The moments before a surgery can be stressful. Your pastors are honored to be with you in those anxious moments. A member of the pastoral staff at BUMC will meet you when you arrive for surgery at an area hospital. They will pray with you and visit with you and your family while you wait.

     

    Hospital Visits

    Being sick can be scary and exhausting. It can be lonely and overwhelming. The pastoral staff of BUMC visits area hospitals on a regular and rotating basis during the week to offer prayer and spiritual support.

     

    Rehab Visits

    After a hospital stay, many people transition to a rehabilitation center to gain strength and skills before heading home. BUMC pastors continue to visit in rehab, but visits are less frequent.

     

    Hospice Care and End of Life

    In situations of death or impending death, pastors should be notified so that they may offer presence, prayer, and support. Pastors can serve as guides to make plans and anticipate a new reality with the family.

     

    Prayer Shawl Ministry

    The Prayer Shawl Ministry meets weekly to knit prayer shawls and prayer squares to be given to those who are sick or hurting and in need of a tangible reminder that God is always with them, loving and caring for them. Pastors often share these with those who are hospitalized or on hospice care as an extension of the church’s love and God’s presence.

    Contact Caring Ministries at caringministries@bumc.net to request a prayer shawl for yourself or someone you know in need.

  • Domestic Abuse

    Domestic violence is not just about hitting. It can take many forms through the use of power and control. Abuse can look like coercion and threats, intimidation, isolation, minimizing or denying a partner’s feelings, and blaming the victim for abusive behavior. If you or a loved one are afraid of a partner’s temper, please feel free to contact one of our pastors or counselors:

    Rev. Casey Orr, 615.324.7244 or corr@bumc.net

  • GraceNotes Ministries

    Volunteers write to recipients once a month on a rotating basis and stationery is provided. Their job is to bring a little sunshine into the lives of those that may not see much of it these days. Contact Caring Ministries to make a request.

  • Healing Housing

    Addiction recovery care for women in Williamson County

    Healing Housing is Williamson County’s first and only transitional living home for women in recovery from addiction. Opened in early 2017, Healing Housing’s two homes provide a safe, supportive environment where women who have completed drug treatment can continue to grow in their sobriety.

    The faith-based program offers life-changing opportunities for women in need, including access to counseling, life skills training, savings programs, individualized healing plans, required outside employment, money management & budgeting courses, mandatory guided 12-step work, opportunities for weekly Bible study, community involvement, and mentorship.

    Learn More

  • LGBTQ Pastoral Care

    BUMC is a place where all people have a home to follow Christ. We also know that many in the LGBTQ community (and/or their loved ones) have been hurt by churches or have felt isolated within faith communities. If you (or a loved one) identify as LGBTQ, and you need a safe space to tell your story or work through questions, contact Rev. Casey Orr at 615.324.7244 or corr@bumc.net to set up an appointment.

  • Parish Nurse Ministry

    The Parish Nurse Ministry provides holistic health-related services to individuals, family members, and neighbors. Key services include counseling, patient advocacy, coordination of health-related education, connecting people with available community resources and nursing care facilities. All information shared is strictly confidential. Contact Dottie Campbell RN/BSN at dcampbell@bumc.net to learn more.

  • Stephen Ministry

    Stephen Ministers are members of our church who have received extensive training and provide confidential, one-to-one Christian care to people who are dealing with health crises and other difficulties. They will listen, care, encourage, pray with and for you, and provide weekly support for you as long as your need persists. Call 615.577.4881 to reach the Stephen Ministry Hotline.

    Learn More

  • Visitation Ministry

    Do you know someone who can no longer attend church on a regular basis and would appreciate a friendly face reaching out to them? The Visitation Ministry has screened and trained volunteers who make monthly visits and phone calls to our home-centered members and extend Christian love and fellowship, serve Communion, and help maintain the connection to our church family.

    Learn More

Group Care

  • Adult ADHD/ADD Support Group

    First & Third Mondays, 6:30-8 p.m., Zoom only.

    Offers workshops for spouses of adults with ADHD/ADD. Contact Terry Huff at 615.627.4191.

  • Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Support Groups

    Monday – Friday, 11:30 a.m., Buchanan House Room 102

    Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30 a.m., Buchanan House Room 102

    Tuesdays and Thursdays, 7 p.m., Buchanan House Room 101

    Men’s Prime Time: Fridays, 7 p.m., Buchanan House Room 101

    Women Only: Mondays, 9 a.m., Buchanan House Room 102 

  • Al-Anon Support Group

    Meets Tuesdays, 7 pm, Buchanan House Room 101

    Contact Peggy M at 615.373.1952 or Linda G at 615.376.7723 to learn more.

  • ALS Support Group

    Third Thursdays of the month, 1-2:30 p.m., Room A391

    This is a Nashville Area ALS patient and caregiver support group. Light refreshments are provided. Contact Patty Lane or Stephanie Nitti to RSVP.

  • Alzheimer’s Support Group

    Second Tuesdays of the month, 2 p.m., Room A389

    A support group for caregivers, friends, and family of persons with Alzheimer’s and other memory loss. Contact Patricia Person at patriciaperson09@comcast.net to learn more.

  • Career Transitions

    Meets Mondays, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Haney Hall

    Career Transitions helps people who are in-between jobs or looking for a career change by offering weekly presentations focused on the latest job search techniques. This free community resource is led by business professionals who have expertise in Nashville's job market and contemporary job search techniques.

    Learn More

  • CoDA Support Group

    Meets Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. - Buchanan House Room 101

    Co-Dependents Anonymous is a program of recovery from co-dependence, where each person may share their experience, strength, and hope in an effort to find freedom where there has been bondage and peace where there has been turmoil in our relationships with others and ourselves. Contact: Tom B. at 615.308.1041 or visit coda.org to learn more.

  • Divorce Recovery

    This 7-week series deals with issues of adjusting to change, stages of grieving, forgiveness, children’s issues, and rebuilding healthy relationships.

    No groups planned at this time.

  • Grief Care

    Suffering the death of someone we love is often shocking and almost always overwhelming. Our experience of grief in the last 2 years has been complicated by distance and isolation which has limited our outlets to process our experiences. Contact Rev. Casey Orr to learn more.

  • Memory Loss Caregiver Respite: The Sunny Day Club®

    Tuesdays from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

    The Sunny Day Club is a fellowship group for those who are experiencing the early stages of memory loss.  Club members must be able to care for and feed themselves, or caregivers may remain with them to care for their needs during the meeting. Registration is required. Contact: Katie Anderson at 615.370.9467 or katienash@comcast.net to sign up.

    Learn More

  • Orphan, Foster, Adoption Ministry (OFAM)

    The Orphan, Foster, Adoption Ministry has a three-part focus of supporting families who are exploring and navigating the adoption process, encouraging BUMC foster families, and facilitating orphan care opportunities for our congregation. Visit the OFAM Gathering event page to learn more. 

  • Partners in Hope

    If you are journeying through cancer or know someone who is, we would like to connect you with a network of others on that journey. Contact Weslee Hill to learn more.