Faith In Action

Picture this: you are frail, old and lonely. Your day consists of meals with the same faces, the same food, the same four walls. The society in which you live takes little notice of you. A once noble stage of life has become the forgotten age; and you know it.

Enter C.A.F.E. (Caring About Frail and Elderly) Jacaranda. This incredible service was born out of the Respite Care Ministry at Pittwater Uniting Church. Six years ago Ron and Betty Snelling ran the 'Pittwater Junction Coffee Shop' at the old church site in Darley Road, Mona Vale. This café catered for small groups and soon became an entity in itself. The call was made for a leader of this growing ministry while Ron and Betty followed their call into Respite Daycare.

Enter Louise Lorimer. God had prepared Louise for this role. Her background was in hospitality where she cared for elderly people in her family’s motel business. Louise says “it’s amazing how God maps out your life". She also has experience in tourism and marketing which has given her tools to promote C.A.F.E Jacaranda to the greater community. She has developed a close relationship with Marj Blessis at 'The Manly Daily' who is a great supporter of the service.

Louise has more than just credentials. If you have ever had a conversation with her about C.A.F.E Jacaranda you will know what I mean. Louise is passionate about this ministry. This is crucial with the hectic pace of running the C.A.F.E. Louise's role includes ordering food, making bookings, organising volunteers and publicity just to name a few. What keeps her going? She loves telling the story of the church site and praying for the groups before the meal is served. She loves seeing the patrons happy, she loves being called "darling".

Once again, picture yourself back at the nursing home where we began. You are now being taken out to a beautiful café nestled in tranquil bushland. While feasting on delicious hot meal, you glance around at new faces and take in spectacular views of towering gum trees and the sparkling sea. There is music; some of your favourite songs. You peruse the craft table and enjoy the loving service of the volunteers. This is something you can talk about with your carers, your friends and family. It is not just a meal but an event. To close the day you are given a card with an inspiring photo and Bible verse to remind you of your experience at C.A.F.E. Jacaranda.

However, it is not just the tangible things that make this occasion life enhancing. The atmosphere is different, unlike an RSL, as Louise says "You feel God's presence here";. This is faith in action. In Matthew it says "Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in... The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me'." (Matthew 26:37-40). This is Louise's attitude toward our community. Her vision for C.A.F.E Jacaranda extends past her present clients and into the community. Only last year she convinced Newport Public School to have their end of year concert on the church grounds. All are welcome to meet our great God on this incredible property He has provided.

And this is happening through the C.A.F.E's regular volunteers. Most of these people are not christians, only a few come from Pittwater Uniting Church. The community can clearly see the value of this service to those in need. These volunteers help set up the room, prepare and serve the food, (wo)man the craft table, play music, drive the bus and pack away.

Talking to Louise, you cannot help but catch the vision she has for this ministry. It is an exciting place. It is where belief meets action. A place where you know God is pleased. It is a tough gig; a hidden gem. So talk to Louise Lorimer, catch the vision. Pick up the phone and volunteer or book the C.A.F.E for your next meeting or function. Call Louise on 9999 1217. It is not just for respite purposes. You can have morning tea for five dollars a head or a steaming hot delicious lunch for thirteen dollars a head.

Music groups are always welcome. Book your school band to entertain the lunchtime crowd. Donate photos for care cards, volunteer in the kitchen, knit, sew or cook for the craft table. Write an encouraging note to Louise and the team. Bring your baby in to bring joy to these frail and elderly people. Presently, Louise needs someone with computer skills in office administration. Let us not leave this article simply patting Louise and the team on the back for a job well done. There is more to be done and they need your help.