We are currently restoring and expanding the Spreading Joy resources from our original site. Some sections are still in progress — in the meantime you will find Skits and Plays at the bottom of this page.
Answering the Call
God has placed something on your heart — a desire to serve, to connect, and to bring light into places that need it. That stirring you feel? That’s the Holy Spirit calling you to action.
Five simple things that consistently bring joy to nursing home residents. None of them require special training—just intentional kindness.
- Eye Contact and a Warm Greeting — .Looking a resident in the eyes, smiling, and greeting them by name communicates something powerful: “You matter.” Many residents are spoken around rather than spoken to, so a personal greeting immediately restores dignity.
- Gentle Physical Touch — A light touch on the shoulder, holding a hand, or a gentle hug (when appropriate) can be incredibly meaningful. Human touch is often missing in residents’ daily lives except during medical care.
- Music — Music reaches people even when memory and speech decline. Familiar hymns, songs from their youth, or simple sing-alongs often spark smiles, tears, and participation—even in residents with advanced memory loss.
- Listening to Their Stories — Many residents carry decades of life experiences that few people ask about anymore. When someone listens with genuine interest, it gives them a chance to feel valued again.
- Being Prayed Over — For residents of faith, prayer can be deeply comforting. Even short, simple prayers can bring peace, reassurance, and a sense of God’s presence. Something as simple as: “Lord, thank you for [their name]. Please fill them with your peace and joy today.”
“Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
“Even if you are just one person who has decided to go into a Care Facility, you can make a difference. The dedication of one person can change the world. It is the commitment you make.”
Volunteer Preparation
Our mission is simple: to bring the joy of Jesus to every resident we meet. It isn’t about performing perfectly. It’s about loving people well.
“The Lord now chose seventy-two other disciples and sent them ahead in pairs to all the towns and places he planned to visit.” — Luke 10:1
Remember Who We Are Visiting
The residents we will meet have lived full lives. Many were parents, workers, teachers, and caregivers. Some may struggle with memory loss, hearing loss, or illness. When you greet them, look them in the eye, smile, and speak clearly. Speak a little slower than normal and give them time to respond.
Be Present
The most important thing you can give a resident is your attention. Sit beside them if possible. Hold a hand if appropriate. Sometimes a smile, a song, or simply sitting quietly together means more than a long conversation.
After the Performance
The program is only the beginning. The real ministry often happens afterward. When we mingle with residents, take a moment to connect with one person at a time—sitting with residents, holding hands, and speaking with them personally.
The joy of Jesus takes on a life of its own and becomes overwhelmingly contagious! When you share the call, you’re not just recruiting volunteers — you’re inviting people into a life-changing experience.
“The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.” — Matthew 9:37-38
Getting Equipped
Contagious Joy’s purpose is to equip and encourage you with useful resources. Whether your group has three people or thirty, whether you have weeks to prepare or just a few days, we have tools that will help you bring the love of Jesus to care facility residents.
Below you’ll find skits, activities, conversation guides, and more — everything you need to plan a meaningful visit. We’re continuing to add resources as we restore our site, so check back often.
“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.” — 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Our skits take little to no practice and memorization, run 3–15 minutes, and are perfect for busy schedules, new groups, or small groups. Each one shares the Good News of Jesus in an engaging, interactive way that care facility residents love.
Our plays require about 6 practices and run 35–50 minutes. Each play teaches youth how trusting in God is always the best way.
Get the Complete Resource Book
Everything your Contagious Joy group needs in one place. The resource book includes all of our skits (3–15 minutes, little practice needed), full-length plays (35–50 minutes, about 6 practices), conversation guides, activity ideas, and equipping materials.
Download your copy and start planning your next visit today.
Questions to Ask
One of the most meaningful things you can do during a care facility visit is simply talk with the residents. Ask them about their lives, their memories, and their faith. Make eye contact, show a bright smile, and reach out your hand. Many residents are waiting for someone who genuinely wants to hear their story.
Here are some conversation starters to help you connect:
“Where did you grow up?”
▶“What was your favorite thing to do when you were young?”
▶“Did you have a favorite pet?”
▶“What kind of work did you do?”
▶“Do you have a favorite hymn or worship song?”
▶“What’s your favorite Bible verse or story?”
▶“Tell me about your family.”
▶“What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?”
▶“What was your favorite holiday tradition?”
▶“What’s something you’re grateful for today?”
▶“Would you like to pray together?”
▶“What brings you joy?”
▶Tips for Connecting
Speak slowly and distinctly
▶Listen more than you talk
▶Communicate at eye level
▶Use appropriate touch
▶For those with hearing impairment
▶For those with vision impairment
▶For those with dementia
▶Be yourself
▶“Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.” — James 1:27
Games & Activities
Ministry goes far beyond performances. There are countless ways to bring joy to care facility residents — from Bible games and sing-alongs to crafts, outings, and simple acts of kindness. Here are some of our favorite activities, hand-picked for groups of all sizes and skill levels.
Creative & Hands-On
▶Garden Therapy
Work with residents on small potted plants, flower arrangements, or raised-bed gardens. The sensory experience of soil, flowers, and fresh air is therapeutic and deeply meaningful for those who once tended their own gardens.
Care Packages
Assemble care packages with personal items like lotion, warm socks, large-print Bibles, and handwritten notes. A tangible reminder that they are not forgotten. Great for groups of all ages, including young children.
Physical & Social
▶Balloon Volleyball
A gentle, seated game where residents bat a balloon back and forth. Encourages movement, laughter, and friendly teamwork — even those in wheelchairs can join in the fun.
One-on-One Visits
Sometimes the most powerful ministry is the simplest: sitting with one resident, listening to their story, holding their hand, and praying together. One-on-one visits are at the center of all care facility ministry.
Pet Therapy Visits
Bring a well-behaved, friendly dog or cat for residents to pet and enjoy. The change that comes over residents’ faces when animals visit is remarkable. Coordinate with the facility’s activity director in advance.
A full resource library with detailed guides for each activity is coming soon.
We show up — He takes over. The resources above are just starting points. God will use your unique gifts and the personalities in your group to create moments that no guide could ever script.
“You’re not meant to do this alone. God designed us to serve in community. The joy of Jesus takes on a life of its own and becomes overwhelmingly contagious!”
Ready to Spread Joy?
Whether you’re planning your first visit or your fiftieth, we’re here to help. Reach out and let us know about your group — we’d love to encourage you, connect you with resources, and pray for your ministry.
More resources, downloadable guides, and a group finder feature are coming soon.
“Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy, for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now. And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” — Philippians 1:3-6