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When you need care . . . Stephen Ministers are there. What is Stephen Ministry? Stephen Ministry is grounded in Jesus’ command to love one another. Through one-to-one caring relationships, those who are hurting receive the love and care they need to support them. · Is life more than you can handle alone right now? · Are your health, your attitude, or your relationships suffering? · Are you adjusting to a new job, change in marital status, a serious illness, the death of a loved one, or a recent move? Everyone goes through difficult times. Having someone to care, to listen, and to share God’s love with you can help you get through the confusion, stress, or loneliness you may be experiencing. What is a Stephen Minister? A Stephen Minister is . . . · A child of God who walks beside a person who is hurting. · A caring, Christian friend who takes the time to really listen. · A lay person who has received extensive 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 is a confidential ministry. Referrals are kept strictly confidential and what you discuss with your Stephen Minister is not shared with anyone else. Stephen Ministers are called to be Caregivers . . . Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2 God is the Curegiver . . . Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28 During the time of the early church, the apostles decided to choose among their faithful disciples those who would be sent into the community to minister to the needs of the people. “And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit . . .” Acts 6:5 If you or someone you know could benefit from the care of a Stephen Minister, please contact Pastor Schmid at 724-941-7467 or email at pastorschmid@comcast.net. Our Stephen Ministers are ready to care for you. + + + + The Stephen Ministry Symbol The symbol for Stephen Ministry is a cross and a circle along with a broken person and a whole person. The broken person behind the cross symbolizes the brokenness in our lives. The whole person in front of the cross symbolizes the wholeness we can only receive through Jesus Christ. The circle symbolizes both the wholeness we receive through Christ and God’s unending love. |