West Columbia’s Brookland United Methodist Church honored some special people last week.

“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 efforts of hospice care workers, the church conducted a free pick-up lunch, of hamburgers and hot dogs.

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.

Payne said Hospice care has not been interrupted despite the corona virus 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.