There is a familiar hymn we hear during the holiday season. It tells of the shepherds and how they watched over their flocks during biblical times.
In our own community, there are shepherds of another kind watching over their flock all year at Linthicum Heights United Methodist Church.
The Shepherds Committee, a part of the church's Caring and Sharing Group, is a group of about 15 dedicated people who keep an eye out for those in the congregation who need special attention.
Each Shepherd chooses members of the church to visit on a steady basis. They visit the ill and homebound, nursing home residents or those simply lonely and in need of company. They also keep in touch with them by telephone and send birthday cards to let them know they are remembered.
Sometimes the Shepherds see that the Sunday altar flowers are delivered to shut-ins to help brighten their day.
To help members stay in touch with the congregation, tapes of each Sunday service are delivered by the Shepherds to those who desire them. They also take large-print devotional material and other items of interest when they visit.
The Shepherds have an arrangement with area hospitals that allows them to visit church members at anytime of day.
The Shepherds Committee was formed in February 1985 by Mary and Lloyd Hammel, who continue to co-chair the committee.
The members of the committee are active in other areas of the church and community but find the time to perform these extra deeds. They welcome anyone who would like to join them.
For information, please call the church office, 859-0990.
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Religious services for New Year's Eve and New Year's Day are scheduled at these churches:
* St. Philip Neri parish will celebrate Mass at 5 p.m. New Year's Eve and at 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., New Year's Day. One Mass will be held at 9 a.m. on Jan. 2.
* Linthicum Heights United Methodist Church will have a 6 p.m. Communion service in the Holly Run Chapel on New Year's Eve. Worship services for New Year's Day are at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. in the sanctuary. Sunday school will be at 9:40 a.m.
* The Sacrament of Holy Communion will be celebrated at the 8:15 a.m. and 11 a.m. services on New Year's Day at St. John Lutheran Church. Sunday school will be from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
If you would like to have news about your group or event published in Neighbors, call Rosalie Falter, 859-3569.