It is with great honor and appreciation that Atonement Lutheran Church of Wesley Chapel, Florida nominates Karen Erickson for the 2023 Good Samaritan Award. Karen joined ALC in the Fall of 2013 and immediately became active in church activities. As part of our 2014 “God’s Work. Our Hand’s” project, Karen initiated our Caring Ministry. In the beginning, it entailed helping with visitation and Eucharist ministry. In 2016, Caring Ministry under Karen’s lead began our Friday “Drive ‘Thru” prayer which is still a part of this ministry. Caring Ministry continues to make visitations and offer Eucharist Ministry along with following up with members when absent for a length of time. Karen continues to add opportunities for the Caring Ministry to reach out to the community, sharing God’s grace. She has found someone who can help with technical issues for those who need the support. The Ministry has set up a “Buddy System” working with our pastor to match up appropriate partners. Care Notes are sent out regularly to those who are dealing with health issues or loss of a loved one as well as cards for birthdays and celebrations. Karen also makes sure our Narthex is welcoming and inviting to our visitors and congregation. She never fails to have a smile, a kind word and exemplifies what we believe a true Samaritan represents.