›› Stephen Ministry at Saint James

Stephen Ministry is...

a program of our congregation that equips lay persons to provide distinctively Christian one-to-one care to those who are experiencing all kinds of like needs and circumstances, both in our congregation and in the community.

Stephen Ministers...

• express God's care through their lives to others;

• receive 50 hours of initial training in important caring ministry skills and concepts;

• are commissioned as Stephen Ministers after completing their initial training;

• visit another person regularly and dependably and offer Christian support and care;

• participate in regular support and supervision under the guidance of trained Stephen Leaders;

• are committed to preserving the confidential nature of the caring relationship;

• serve for at least two years;

• receive continuing education and skill building throughout their years of service.

Stephen Minister leaders at St. James, are making plans for more Stephen Ministry training programs.  If you would like more information about Stephen Ministry and its program, contact the church office. 


 

Stephen Ministries Update...2006

Our congregation owes a debt of thanks to the current Stephen Ministers. With four leaders and 17 Stephen Ministers our congregation is well served in a variety of ways. Six are giving one-on-one care to care receivers in the congregation, although most of them have had a care receiver in the past. At least ten do hospital visitations. One is caring for mothers of young children. When Pastor Paul was sick recently, a Stephen Minister visited with a woman who was dying in the hsopital and gave support to the family. Many serve on a prayer chain. One helps with Satureday evening worhisp when pastor is away. Two served as coordinators for 4Hs. And all of them serve in the church in some capacity.

Although the treaining is for one-on-one care, Stephen Ministry training has been good preparation for leadership in the church in a variety of capacities. The Stephen Ministers also remark on how the training helps them in their personal relationships.

To learn more, please contact the church office at 215-742-1828

Stephen Ministers at Saint James