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Stephen Ministers: The After People
Have you ever wondered exactly what a Stephen Minister is? Stephen Ministers make a difference in the lives of others. At First Church, a few more Stephen Ministers could make a difference right here. Please prayerfully consider how this call to care and connect with others might indeed be your call. A lay Stephen Minister from Houston, Texas, Enie Bourland, likes to explain that Stephen Ministers are "After People."
Stephen Ministers are there:
.....after you've washed and returned the last casserole dish.
.....after the divorce papers have been served and the bottom falls
out of your life.
........after the baby has arrived, putting more demands on you
than you ever dreamed possible.
........after you realize the hands on the gold watch you received
at your retirement party move more slowly than you ever
imagined.
..........after you arrive home following the funeral service and
the emotions you've held at bay come crashing in on you.
..........after the last child honks the horn, waves and drives away
--and the house suddenly seems incredibly empty.
.............after you find the pink slip inserted with what is now
your final paycheck.
.................after your family and friends have heard your story
one too many times, but you still need to talk it out.
Stephen Ministers are the "After People." They are ready to come alongside you-----or your friends, neighbors, coworkers, or relatives-----and provide comfort and support for as long "after" as needed.
IS STEPHEN MINISTRY FOR YOU?
So Prospective Stephen Ministers can plan ahead.........
STEPHEN MINISTRY WINTER 2011 TRAINING SCHEDULE
STEPHEN MINISTERS NEEDED! First Church is participating again this winter with other area churches to train prospective Stephen Ministers. All class meetings will be here at First Church.
Stephen Ministry training will begin on Saturday, January 22, 2011 with a mini retreat which will be a time of hospitality and orientation. Here is the schedule and topics for the next training opportunity.
January 22 8-2:30 (the caregiver, feelings, listening)
January 29 8-12:30 (distinctively Christian caring)
February 12 8-12:30 (process versus results, confidentiality)
February26 8-12:30 (assertiveness)
March 12 8-12:30 (maintaining boundaries, crisis theory)
March26 8-12:30 (telecare, using mental health pros)
April 9 8-12:30 ( grief, care for the dying)
April 30 8-12:30 (depression, suicide)
May 14 8-12:30 (supervision)
May 21 8-12:30 (bringing closure, first caring visit)
In June 2011, all new Stephen Ministers will be commissioned and honored at a worship service.
