No One Should Be Alone: A Ministry of Presence in Nursing Homes

More than half of all people living in U.S. nursing homes receive no regular visitors. No family. No friends. No one to advocate for them. But St. John Lutheran Church in Farmington Hills, Michigan, is doing something about it—and they’re inviting you to do the same.

Pathways in Compassion is a nursing home visitation ministry that pairs volunteers with residents who would otherwise go unseen and unheard. Currently, volunteers from St. John regularly visit 20 residents at a local care facility, offering conversation, prayer, and the quiet gift of presence.

Founded by The Rev. Dr. Mark Fisher, the ministry grew out of his realization that many nursing home residents—especially those without nearby family—had simply been forgotten. From that experience came the conviction that visitation is not just an act of kindness, but a call from Christ to be present with the vulnerable and isolated.

Now, St. John is offering everything you need to bring this ministry to your own congregation. The Pathways in Compassion booklet provides a free, easy-to-follow guide with steps to launch a team, tips for visiting residents, and heartfelt stories from volunteers. Pastor Fisher and his team also offer training and support for congregations ready to step into this work.

As people of faith, we know the importance of showing up for one another—especially those society has left behind. Pathways in Compassion is a practical, spirit-filled way to embody God’s love and affirm the sacred worth of every person.

Interested in volunteering with St. John’s team or starting a Pathways program in your congregation?

👉 Contact Pastor Mark at om@stjohn-elca.org

📥 Download the free guide: stjohn-elca.org/pathwaysincompassion

“When people experience the peace of God in their own lives,” says Pastor Mark, “they become ready to share that same love with others.”