Does Pastor Ricky Make Hospital/Nursing Home Visits?

Yes. Pastor Ricky believes that one aspect of his calling is to provide pastoral care to God’s flock. The Shepherd metaphor in Scripture reminds us that sheep (believers in God’s fold) need to be guided and cared for by the pastor (John 21:15-19; Acts 20:28; Ephesians 4:11; 1 Peter 5:2). Ricky truly enjoys showing the love and care of Christ to people in times of great need or illness.

However, it must be said that the primary calling of a pastor is to spend time with God in prayer and in the study of God’s Word so the proclamation and teaching of the Bible can be unhindered (Acts 6:1-7; 2 Timothy 4:2). Pastors have many demands upon their schedule and many members who need to be cared for. The needs are too great for one pastor to meet. Therefore, Pastor Ricky has equipped other believers to serve with him in this vital task of pastoral care. The Bible says one of the responsibilities of the pastor is to “equip the saints for the work of ministry so that the body of Christ may be built up” (Ephesians 4:12). At Fort Caroline Baptist Church we equip deacons, LifeGroup leaders, staff members, and church members to assist in providing care through hospital and nursing home visits. These people are extensions of the pastor’s ministry.

If you or a loved one is in need of a visit please call the church office at 904-642-2288 and give us the information. One of the pastors and/or trained assistants will be glad to visit.