About Presbyterian Kirk In The Pines

Janie Smith - Congregational Care Some might call it common sense while others envision a lot of hard work. But for Janie Smith, current Visitation Coordinator here at the Kirk, becoming Congregational Care Moderator and a member of the Session is the continuing fulfillment of a call she sensed even in her youth. Raised in Sioux City, Iowa, the oldest of six children, Janie entered nurses training after high school. Even then she was a “people person.” Through a medical career that spanned the obstetrics department of several hospitals to the directorship of a nursing home, Janie has cared for and about people. In the meantime she and Ted, her husband of nearly 60 years, raised four children and welcomed eight grandchildren and two great-grandsons. With this daily prayer, “Lord how can I serve you today,” Janie’s goal is to strengthen and advance the work of the church whose mission statement begins “We are a caring community of Christians committed to … share the love of God.” The committee under her leadership welcomes and encourages such expression. As we pray for one another, visit those lonely and/or in need, transport, correspond, assist, encourage and nurture, we faithfully serve and guide people to Jesus Christ. Congregational Care The Congregational Care Committee is the heartbeat of the Kirk. Committee members give rides to doctor appointments, check on members who are recovering from illness and hospital stays, comfort families after the death of a loved one, and provide much needed respite for caregivers. Prayer Tree volunteers pray for members and their families on request. Volunteers bring the Word to homebound members by providing CDs of services. Members of the committee who are retired care-giving professionals share their knowledge by offering health advice and education for patients, families and caregivers. The ESP (Every Single Person) program matches members who live alone with buddies who check on each other daily. The Christian Friends program pairs trained caregivers with people in need. Prayer Shawls are knitted and crocheted by Kirk members, dedicated in church and given to members who are hospitalized, homebound because of declining health or moving to another community.