Cancer care ministry is a hope ministry. While it involves prayer, counsel, visits and assistance, it is centered on bringing God's hope to patients and their caregivers, family and friends. This requires an understanding of the impact of cancer, how people react to it and how God has called His people to respond. Above all, it requires us to have within ourselves an unfeigned hope that we can take to those in need.
This ministry training program was created because of the significant need in our nation, as well as in the body of Christ, to care for those dealing with cancer. There were more than 16.9 million Americans with a history of cancer on January 1, 2019, and that number is projected to reach more than 22.1 million by 2030 based on the growth and aging of the population alone, according to estimates from the most recent Cancer Treatment and Survivorship Statistics report. Each year, another 1.9 million Americans are expected to be diagnosed with cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.
That means that in a church of 200 people, approximately eight people are living with cancer and two more will be diagnosed with it every year. Each of these individuals has family members and caregivers that are affected as well. This Bible-based ministry training program has been developed to equip God's people with the tools needed to bring hope to the millions who are living with cancer.
Why is Cancer different?
Cancer attacks the body. It is an assault of rogue cells trying to take over the body and break down everything in their path. But its attack is no less intensive on the mind and spirit. Yet, there remains something that cancer cannot conquer: hope.
Cancer care ministry requires unique insights, both into the disease and into God's Word. The purpose of Our Journey of Hope® is to equip you with these insights, and to help you cultivate and carry the hope for which so many are longing.
What is the impact?
Imagine you are feeling afraid, rejected, alone, powerless, ashamed and hopeless. Envision, then, if someone comes to you and says words that no one else has said, does things that no one else has done and leaves you with courage, strength, dignity and hope for the future - and God's plan. How would that affect you? What if it changed one day? What about 10 days? 100 days? What if it helped you through to see another whole season of life with hope?
The potential impact is indescribable.