Sitting alone in a seat of grief can be painful when there is lack of support and care. The Caring Ministry Department at the Palm Bay Seventh-day Adventist Church, led by Dr. Arlene Walker-Adams, knows the importance of showing care and compassion by sitting next to and supporting individuals grieving. For this reason, they provide immediate and ongoing support extending Christ’s compassion to the bereaved in need.
On July 18, 2026, the Caring Ministry Department hosted its quarterly bereavement support group. Centered on the theme “Trusting God in Times of Grief,” the program included uplifting songs, scripture readings, prayers, and testimonials honoring loved ones. Jennifer Sankey-Battles, Ph.D., Health and Possibilities Ministry Director for the Southeastern Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, attended in support of this meaningful ministry.
For more than 20 years, the Caring Ministry at Palm Bay Seventh-day Adventist Church has offered hope, comfort, and compassionate care to individuals and families grieving the loss of a loved one. First established under the Women’s Ministries Department, the ministry began a new chapter this year under the Prayer Ministries Department, led by Dr. Arlene Walker-Adams, while continuing its mission to reflect Christ’s love during life’s most difficult moments.
The ministry’s purpose is simple yet profound: to demonstrate the love and compassion of Jesus Christ to the church family and the community. Through practical acts of kindness and faithful spiritual support, the Caring Ministry reminds grieving families that they do not have to walk through loss alone
The Caring Ministry is guided by a dedicated 16-member team. Volunteers serve on a monthly rotation to ensure that every family receives timely care and encouragement. When the ministry receives notification of a death, the assigned team promptly reaches out to the bereaved through telephone calls, sympathy cards, and floral expressions of comfort. Based on each family’s needs and availability, home visits are arranged to offer prayer, encouragement, and compassionate presence. Team members also assist families in coordinating funeral services and provide support during memorial and funeral services whenever possible.
During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, when isolation and grief affected countless families, the ministry launched its Quarterly Virtual Service for Bereaved Families. What began as a response to an unprecedented crisis has become an ongoing outreach that continues to bless participants throughout Florida, across the United States, and internationally. Conducted via Zoom, the quarterly service brings together the Palm Bay SDA pastoral team, ministry leaders, Certified Bereavement Chaplains, licensed counselors, and Caring Ministry team members to offer a listening ear along with messages of hope, healing, prayer, songs of praise, and encouragement.
All ministries within the church work alongside the Caring Ministry to identify and support individuals experiencing grief, personal crises, and other life challenges. This collaborative approach reflects Palm Bay SDA Church’s commitment to holistic ministry, ensuring that every member feels seen, valued, and cared for.
As the ministry continues to grow, its impact is evident in the lives it touches. Whether through a comforting phone call, a heartfelt prayer, a home visit, or a memorial service, the Caring Ministry faithfully embodies Christ’s love and compassion. In a world where grief is often experienced in silence, Palm Bay SDA Church’s Caring Ministry stands as a beacon of hope, reminding every hurting heart that God’s presence is near and that His church is committed to walking alongside them.
The Caring Ministry Team is easily recognized by its royal blue attire, symbolizing unity, compassion, and faithful service as they minister to those in need.
Palm Bay SDA Church’s Caring Ministry continues its mission of bringing comfort, hope, and the healing love of Jesus Christ to grieving families—one compassionate act at a time. For such a time as this, Dr. Walker-Adams and Dr. Sankey-Battles encourage churches to offer ongoing support for grieving families. The Caring Ministry can serve as a model for launching or strengthening bereavement ministries in your church or community. The next Caring Ministry quarterly gathering is scheduled for October 17, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. and is open to everyone. To learn more, visit the Palm Bay Seventh-day Adventist Church website.
Written by Dr. Arlene Walker-Adams
