1.WHAT DO I HOPE TO ACHIEVE BY THIS VISIT?

Sadness in some form has invaded this home. It is possibly due to the loss of a loved one.  It may take the form of financial reversal or a great loss by fire or a storm.  Your purpose will be to provide consolation and to assist the contact to become reconciled to the loss. Help them bear their burdens “and so fulfill the law of Christ”. You may also render aid in a more tangible way. In the event of death, help to see that meals are supplied during the early days of the crises. Help to supply needed clothing, foodstuff, or money in the event of an unexpected reversal or disaster.

How good it is to have someone to lean on in the time of trouble. Your visit and interest will mean more than can ever be expressed.

2.SHOULD I TELEPHONE BEFORE GOING?

A phone call before going will not be necessary in most instances. There is nothing wrong with phoning if you so desire or in the event of some uncertainties concerning the visit.

3.WHEN SHOULD I GO?

Go as soon as you learn of the need. In most situations of this kind, you can be of more assistance shortly after the misfortune. Tangible needs are greatest then, as a rule, and may need to be met. Consolation is more meaningful and helpful when the anguish is so great.
Almost any time of day will be all right especially if the situation is an emergency.

4.SHOULD I GO ALONE?

If you prefer. In most instances you will probably want another member of the congregation or your companion to go with you.

5.WHAT SHALL I DO WHEN I GET THERE?

Speak to the one you have come to see and express your sympathy. There probably will be others of the family present, whom you could introduce yourself to and perhaps mention that, you are from the Church.

6.WHAT SHALL I TALK ABOUT?

If the misfortune has recently occurred those more closely involved will probably not feel like conversing.  Just make a few statements designed to console and give comfort and courage, you might visit briefly with members of the family who are present.  One or two will probably be taking charge of the house and make arrangements. Consult with them if there is anything you can do. Inquire about specific needs.

If it has been a few days since the misfortune occurred, you could help them to become reconciled to their loss. Let them cry on your shoulder. It sometimes helps to have someone who will listen sympathetically. Appropriate scripture quotations are good and the Christian will appreciate prayer on such occasions.

7.SHOULD I LEAVE ANY WRITTEN MATERIAL?

It would be appropriate to take some suitable reading matter, especially if your visit is a few days after the misfortune.

Other than reading matter, it’s in order for meals to be taken in, especially right after the misfortune to keep the family from being burdened with such details. In the event of disaster, help as you can. The Church will probably assist under such circumstances.

8.HOW LONG SHOULD I STAY?

A short visit will be more effective in the event you arrive shortly after the misfortune unless none of the family is there or there is some need you may help meet by staying.
If you visit a few days after the misfortune, you will likely have opportunity to visit longer since most of the family will probably have gone.

9.WHAT ARRANGEMENTS SHOULD I MAKE BEFORE LEAVING?

Be alert to any real needs and make definite arrangements with them to assist. Inquire about any needs you don’t observe. Be tactful about any aid you offer, es­pecially financial.

10. WHAT SHOULD I REPORT?

Note the date and time of your visit report any needs which you were unable to fill or think the Church should look into. Indicate if you think that it advisable to have others visit right away. Indicate how the person reacted to your visit and if they are adjusting to the situation satisfactorily.  File the report with the elders / at the building.

11. HOW WILL THIS REPORT BE USED?

It will be included in the report of the contacts made in your zone for the month. If there are any needs reported, they will be looked into and met where feasible.
If there is need, other calls of the same nature will be made based upon what you observed on your visit.

12.  AM I THROUGH WITH THIS CONTACT AFTER THE ONE VISIT?

You will want to continue to visit with them either by telephone or by other oc­casional visits within the next few weeks. Some adjust more readily to such situations than others, but your interest will help immeasurably.
It will help them not only to overcome their sorrow, but also to appreciate one of the true blessings of Christian fellowship. Frequently, such genuine interest will be a means of influencing non-Christians in the family who observed your good works.