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Stephen Ministry Stephen Ministry is a one-on-one caregiving ministry at Zion. The Stephen Series is a complete system for training and organizing Stephen Ministers (lay people) to give distinctively Christian care to people who need it both in the congregation and in the community. (For more information on the Stephen Series click here) Stephen Ministers are trained to aid a care receiver (someone going through a tough time) to more effectively deal with their struggles. These life circumstances might include: Illness Family frustrations and challenges Loneliness Grieving Separation or divorce Job promotion or loss Financial setbacks Relocation Struggling with faith in God Stephen Ministers (care providers) show the love of Jesus Christ through a ministry of presence. Stephen Ministry training will equip you, and our congregation will support you, so that you can show God’s mercy, care and compassion to another who is hurting. What Does A Stephen Minister do? Provides quality one-to-one ministry as trained, caring church members reaching out to others in time of need Engages in a care-giving relationship that focuses on the unique needs of one person and lasts as long as the needs exist. Receives support, guidance, and supervision from Stephen Leaders and from each other in order to maintain effective Christian care to others Stephen Ministers are selected and retained on their ability to maintain confidentiality in their caring relationships with God’s people. What type of training will I receive? Stephen Ministers receive 50 hours of training - offered at Christ Victorious - along with continuing education that covers such topics as: Listening and feelings Relationship building Assertiveness training Confidentiality Crisis theory and intervention Use of prayer and the Bible What happens after training? Including training, we ask that you make a 24-month commitment of service to Stephen Ministry that includes: Study of the training materials Service as a Stephen Minister (usually involving a one-hour weekly one-to-one visit) for about 18 months following completion of the training program. Participation in twice-monthly 1-hour supervision meetings Participation in continuing education as needed If you would like to be connected to a Stephen Minister, or are interested in being trained as a Stephen Minister, please email Gail Honebrink gailhonebrink@yahoo.com or call Pastor Woodford (952-657-2339). |
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Sunday Bulletin