“Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”  Matthew 25:40

Purpose

 The purpose of the Beltway Church of Christ visitation program is to assist in carrying out the mission of the church by worship and fellowship with those unable to attend regular worship services.

 Design

 Visitation teams consist of a minimum of two members, of which at least one must be male.  The team will visit sick and shut-in members of the Beltway Church of Christ following the regular Sunday morning worship service.  Visitation teams will conduct services including of all five elements of service as practical.  

 Visitation Team Procedures 

1. Teams must assemble as soon as possible after the morning worship.
2. If the member visited is female, there must be at least one female member on the visitation team.
3. Teams should take a minimum number of hymnals on the visit.
4. If directions are required obtain them before leaving for the visit.
5. Unless hospitalized, the sick and shut-in should be called from the church building prior to leaving for visitation.
6. If the member desires to be visited ascertain the ability of the member to receive the Lord’s Supper.
   1. If the member does wish to receive the Lord’s Supper attempt to ascertain the number of people to be served and take adequate supplies with you.
   2. The Lord’s Supper must be administered by a male member of the team.
   3. If the member does not desire or cannot receive the Lord’s Supper the visitation should be conducted without it.
7. Note the condition of the person visited on visitation report.
8. If the member does not wish to be visited ascertain their condition and note it on the visitation report.
9. If the visitation takes place at a hospital or nursing home, plan to include others who wish to take part.
10. Visitation service should be kept brief, while ensuring the needs of the member are being met.
11. Do not make obligations for the church, report any special needs to the elders.
12. Turn in the visitation report prior to the next worship service.