Burlington Baptist Church Health Support Ministry

Our cancer health care ministry began as a result of my mother having cancer and then myself being diagnosed. As I walked the cancer journey, it became apparent this journey was one needing support from others.I made a decision that if the Good Lord brought me through this, I would do my part and help others with their cancer journey.

When I find out about a person’s diagnosis, I go to their house and provide them all sorts of resources to help them determine which route they should take. I always tell them not to leave any stone unturned. Getting a second opinion and even a third is very important.

I have had Rev. Percy McCray, director of pastoral care at Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) in Zion, Illinois, come and provide ministry training at our church, along with the Carolyn Lammersfeld, CTCA director of nutrition. They gave us many tips on how to speak to a cancer patient, along with the proper diet for a person with cancer. The training manual they provided through the lay ministry training of Our Journey of Hope, the CTCA spiritual outreach program, has many Scriptures that have been very helpful when speaking to cancer patients also. We had over 150 people attend the seminars they did for us.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned through my ministry is to be a better listener. Sometimes all cancer patients need is someone to be there with them and hold their hand for the visit. Encouraging them and letting them know to focus on God, for He is the healer, is so very important in their fight.

My wife, Ida, and I provide support to cancer patients in many ways -- transportation to and from doctor appointments, preparing meals, running errands such as picking up prescriptions. My own experience with cancer had provided me with many insights of a cancer patient’s needs.Attitude is another very important tool to encourage them about.

My church, Burlington Baptist, is very supportive of the health ministry.Brother Todd Toole, senior pastor, supports and encourages people to ask questions and gain direction from the ministry. He is a firm believer in early detection and cancer screening for both men and women.

Psalms 46:1-3 says: God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.

Harold Stork
Ministry Facilitator/859-586-5821