BEING COMFORTABLE REFERRING TO THE STEPHEN MINISTRY

The Stephen Ministry continues to serve congregants and the community by providing Christian care to those experiencing life challenges. As a church ministry, the Stephen Ministry belongs to each of us and as a result can be utilized by us as individuals. The Stephen Ministry, as well as the other church ministries, can act as special tools utilized as an available resource in your service to others. In the same way you would request prayer for a friend in need, the Stephen Ministry may be available to a friend that needs a listening ear. The Stephen Ministry is not solely for Stephen Ministers to provide Christian care. The Stephen Ministry is a servant resource for you to access for a friend with a crisis.

Imagine for a moment that you have a neighbor in need.

Their ability to cope is still in tact but they are hindered and troubled by one of life’s challenges. The hurt could be a divorce, a deteriorating physical condition, joblessness, disability, care giving demands, loss of a loved one and the list can go on. You may want to help this person but do not know how to reach out. There are easy and readily available options for you to consider and act upon. You may first want to contact Drew Shelley, John Lee or a Stephen Leader/Minister and present the situation namelessly to determine if a Stephen Minister referral and contact is appropriate. It is as simple as a telephone call, completing a Stephen Ministry pew card or an informal meeting at church or perhaps even a grocery store. Another option is to discuss your concern with the friend and encourage them to contact the Stephen Ministry. If the person in need of a listening ear happens to be you, the process is the same. The Stephen Ministry is a confidential Christian care ministry. Remember, the Stephen Ministry is your ministry and if you are interested in serving as a Stephen Minster or making a referral, do not hesitate to call John Lee (526-8840) or Drew Shelley (526-2177).