What Do Stephen Ministers Do?

Stephen Ministers:

• Listen • Share Christ's Love • Explore feelings • Maintain confidentiality • Pray • Attend to the care giving process and leave the results to God

Stephen Ministers care for people who are

• Grieving • In a crisis • In long term care • Dying • Hospitalized • Experiencing losses as they age • Divorcing • Going through a crisis in childbirth • The family and friends of people in crises

How Does One Become a Stephen Minister

Beginning this January, our church will begin a new Stephen Ministry Training class. Stephen Ministers will receive 50 hours (20 weeks) of initial training in care giving skills, specific ministry situations and spiritual grounding from the congregation's Stephen Leaders. Upon completion of training, Stephen Ministers will participate in Small Group Peer Supervision twice a month. During supervision sessions, Stephen Ministers have the opportunity to question and work through any challenges or difficulties they may be experiencing in their caring relationships. Stephen Ministers commit to at least 2 years of training, service and regular supervision.

While being a Stephen Minister requires commitment of time and effort, it also brings joy and fulfillment. It may be one of the most rewarding challenges you will ever embrace.

Think and pray about this opportunity. If you would like to become a Stephen Minister, please contact one of our Stephen Leaders: Beth Daffin, Susie Jordan, Jack Kneiss, or Penny Waters. You may also contact Ron Preuss, at (770) 887-2900, ext. 212