What is a Stephen Minister?

A Stephen Minister is . . .

· a child of God who walks beside a hurting person;
· a caring Christian friend who really listens;
· a lay person who has received at least 50 hours of training in how to
provide distinctively Christian care.

A Stephen Minister is NOT . . .

· a counselor or therapist;
· a problem-solver;
· a casual visitor.

Stephen Ministry helps meet the needs of individuals of all ages who are...

· hospitalized;
· terminally ill;
· bereaved;
· in a job crisis;
· divorcing;
· in transition;
· disabled, homebound, lonely;
· in a spiritual/personal crisis; or looking for a caring Christian friend.

We are pleased to announce the addition of four new Stephen Ministers. Peggy Erhorn, Bob Carlson, Linda and Jerry Goresch have joined Donna Yost, Faye Hoffman and myself.
Currently we have two care receivers that are being ministered to by St. John’s Stephen Ministers and have facilitated the care of three others by local congregations that have Stephen Ministry programs.

Stephen Ministry meets twice a month. In the meetings we work together to provide supervision to the Stephen Ministers who have care receivers, and also offer continuing education. In order for a care receiver to truly open up and share there innermost thoughts and feelings, the caregiver must have the assurance that communication is confidential. Stephen Ministry is a Christ centered ministry where God is the cure giver and the Stephen Minister is the vessel of God’s love. Stephen Ministry is a powerful and personal ministry. Without the continued support of the pastors and the congregation we will not be able to sustain this caring ministry.

If you are interested in joining our team please contact any Stephen Minister. We are planning our next training session in the fall of 2008.

Yours In Christ,
Scott Liggett and Donna Yost