194: Hosting a Watch Party: Turn One Event into Year-Round Volunteer Training.

In this insightful episode of the Care Ministry Podcast, Laura Howe sits down with Ruth Brooks, Care Ministry Administrator at Mission Church in Ventura, California. Ruth shares her unexpected journey into care ministry, the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on how churches care for their congregations, and her excitement about hosting a Church Mental Health Summit watch party. The conversation explores how to equip volunteers, create a culture of compassionate care, and redefine church beyond Sunday gatherings. Ruth’s story is one of resilience, faith, and deep compassion—a must-listen for anyone involved in care ministry.

Quotes

• “We all have compassion that God gives us…” –Ruth Brooks
• “It stripped away everything we put on church to find out that church, at its core, is community.” –Laura Howe
• “I want our volunteers to feel confident—even a listening ear can make a huge difference.” –Ruth Brooks
• “You don’t have to be a clinician to support someone well—you just need compassion and an attuned ear.” –Laura Howe
• “To hear mental health talked about in church without shame or embarrassment—it was healing for so many.” –Ruth Brooks

Resources

• Church Mental Health Summit

Connect with Hope Made Strong

Website: HopeMadeStrong.org

Socials: Facebook – Instagram – Twitter – YouTube