Twenty Years of Care Home Ministry in Wisbech

This year marks a remarkable milestone in ecumenical ministry in Wisbech as Churches Together celebrates twenty years of faithful service to the town’s care homes.

It all began in May 2005 when an elderly parishioner from the local Catholic Church was admitted to Dove Court care home. Michael Owen, the home’s activities organiser, approached Sean Finlay with the idea of establishing a regular service for residents. What started as a modest proposal has blossomed into a thriving, deeply cherished ministry spanning five care homes in the area.

Michael and Sean, the only remaining members of the original team, have watched this pastoral outreach grow steadily over the years. Each service now regularly draws around twenty-five residents, with a simple yet uplifting format of light-hearted singing combined with prayerful reflection. The joy and peace it brings have made the services a highlight in the homes’ calendars.

In recent years, there has been a heartening increase in participation from residents’ relatives, many of whom are moved by the positive impact the ministry has on their loved ones. The team has also seen a rise in requests for end-of-life visits, offering spiritual comfort and gentle farewells during life’s final chapter.

The ministry has grown in both scope and diversity, now drawing on volunteers from most of Wisbech’s Christian communities. A notable enhancement has been the involvement of tech-savvy team members such as Rev. Robin and Alan, whose audio-visual support has added a professional and engaging element to the services.

To mark this significant anniversary, a celebratory afternoon tea was held at Just Jades Tea Room in nearby Walpole St Andrew. The event was generously funded by Churches Together, with additional support from Johan and Rachael, owners of Tamar Nurseries, a local business located on the A47 just before Wisbech from the east. Their ultra-modern facility, powered by its own water and electricity supply, not only champions sustainability but also provides fulfilling employment opportunities for young people in the community.

Looking to the future, Churches Together is now exploring a leadership succession plan to ensure this much-loved ministry continues to flourish. Sean Finlay, whose faithful commitment has been instrumental, is beginning to turn his attention to other community endeavours — including the promotion of cycling in Wisbech. He and a colleague have successfully persuaded the town council to establish a cycling working group. Whether it becomes more than just a “talking shop” remains to be seen — but if Sean’s past record is anything to go by, wheels are sure to turn.

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