Comfort Year-Round

A heartfelt ministry at Chapel Hill UMC that reminds our shut-ins they are deeply loved, remembered, and connected to their church family. Through thoughtful gifts, handwritten notes, and caring visits, this ministry brings encouragement and joy right to their door.

Born from Care

Bags of Love began in Spring 2021 during the pandemic, when Janice Holmgren launched this meaningful outreach as a way to remind Chapel Hill UMC’s shut-ins that they were cherished and never forgotten. What started as a simple act of kindness quickly became a beautiful ministry of connection and compassion. Following Janice’s legacy, Lisa Ingram continued the work, and today Brenda Gross faithfully serves as the current coordinator. 

Born from Care

Bags of Love began in Spring 2021 during the pandemic, when Janice Holmgren launched this meaningful outreach as a way to remind Chapel Hill UMC’s shut-ins that they were cherished and never forgotten. What started as a simple act of kindness quickly became a beautiful ministry of connection and compassion. Following Janice’s legacy, Lisa Ingram continued the work, and today Brenda Gross faithfully serves as the current coordinator. 

Love in Every Bag

Each Bags of Love delivery is thoughtfully prepared to bring both practical support and a personal touch. Every bag includes: 
• Handmade card and/or scripture
• Calendar of upcoming church events
• Snack
• Writing materials
• Sometimes even puzzle books for a little fun.
We’re grateful to currently serve 10 shut-ins, with monthly cards lovingly supplied by our dedicated Cardmaking Group.

Love in Every Bag

Each Bags of Love delivery is thoughtfully prepared to bring both practical support and a personal touch. Every bag includes: 
• Handmade card and/or scripture
• Calendar of upcoming church events
• Snack
• Writing materials
• Sometimes even puzzle books for a little fun.
We’re grateful to currently serve 10 shut-ins, with monthly cards lovingly supplied by our dedicated Cardmaking Group.

Connections That Matter 

These special bags are hand-delivered four times a year—in March, June, September, and December—by caring volunteers known as Buddies.
Buddies are volunteers who are connected with designated shut-ins, offering companionship in ways that fit each person’s preferences and needs. Through friendly visits, thoughtful deliveries, and meaningful connection, Buddies help create relationships that make this ministry so special.
Together, these simple but meaningful gestures make a lasting difference, bringing joy, comfort, and connection to those who need it most. 

Connections That Matter 

These special bags are hand-delivered four times a year—in March, June, September, and December—by caring volunteers known as Buddies.
Buddies are volunteers who are connected with designated shut-ins, offering companionship in ways that fit each person’s preferences and needs. Through friendly visits, thoughtful deliveries, and meaningful connection, Buddies help create relationships that make this ministry so special.
Together, these simple but meaningful gestures make a lasting difference, bringing joy, comfort, and connection to those who need it most. 

Be Part of the Love

Bags of Love is a beautiful reminder that small acts of kindness can have a powerful impact. Whether through volunteering, supporting the ministry, or becoming a Buddy, you can help us continue spreading love and encouragement to those in our church family who need it most. 
Contact Leader

Be Part of the Love

Bags of Love is a beautiful reminder that small acts of kindness can have a powerful impact. Whether through volunteering, supporting the ministry, or becoming a Buddy, you can help us continue spreading love and encouragement to those in our church family who need it most. 
Contact Leader