As we grow older, our personal networks shrink, even at middle age. Brian Kravitz and Robin Strashun of Search and Care identify ways that church members can create supportive communities within the home, by phone and in group activities. Search and Care (a Fifth Avenue mission partner) provides home-based, comprehensive services to elderly residents on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.

The Circle: Conversations about Health, Wellness & Spirituality is a monthly educational forum for all who are interested in understanding the variety of needs—mental health issues, end-of-life decisions, spiritual crises and more—that arise in a community of faith. Convened by Associate Pastor Kate Dunn, these conversations help participants develop skills to respond with compassionate care to those in need.