Brookland United Methodist Church in West Columbia honored some special people, Monday.

“Hospice workers go into peoples’ homes to provide “end-of-life” care,” said Mark Payne, Brookland UMC pastor. “What they do is very important.”

To recognize the effort of the Hospice care workers, the church conducted a free pick-up lunch, of hamburgers and hot dogs, Monday. Members of the congregation made the take-out meals. Wearing masks and gloves, those meals were handed out as the Hospice caregivers came in one-by-one.

Hospice Care of South Carolina and AGAPE Hospice were recognized. David Coffman, chaplain for the group, offered a prayer. Many come from the Lexington Community Hospice House.

Click here for a video link to Brookland UMC lunch pick-up

Payne said Hospice care has not been interrupted despite the coronavirus crisis.

“Hospice care workers do not know what they are walking into, but they go anyway. They are taking a risk,” said Payne. “They are caring for the whole family. It’s a big comfort and we appreciate what they are doing.”

Payne’s wife, Candi Payne, is a Hospice care nurse, and he said the luncheon coincided with National Nurses Week.