One-to-one Ministry
by a trained, caring friend
What is Stephen Ministry?
The whole idea of this type of ministry was formally established in 1995. It is named after the apostle Stephen whose commitment to the early church was to help those in need. Churches of various denominations throughout the US are involved and use this one on one caregiving to help people with long and short term problems and concerns. During September, a workshop was held at Gloria Dei to train churches throughout the state about how Stephen Ministry could help them provide Christian support to people in their communities.
In years past, smaller congregations many of them being rural, pastors were in tune to quietly minister to those needing help. Cultures had taught families to care for their own and people were hesitant to discuss any problems outside of the family. Today however, often families or someone a person could talk with do not live close-by. Problems and needs are magnified by complicated lifestyles and pressures of everyday life. An example would be that the funeral of someone near to you was a week ago. But your boss and society insists you move forward. Likely you are still hurting - a lot - and need somewhere to turn.
A Stephen Minister confidentially expands the church's caring relationship of listening and lending an arm of support. The Stephen Minister [caregiver] is matched by the pastor to someone [care receiver] of the same sex who needs help. Examples of life-changing needs include: elderly person moving to care center, new baby, child leaving for college, divorce, job loss, stress, depression and addictions.
Caregivers receive 50 hours of intensive group training and continue to meet for additional support and training after receiving their care receiver. Care givers must use prayer, understand the time needs and challenges ahead and discuss their commitment with their family prior to being commissioned.
Occasionally care givers recognize situations greater than they are able to support and suggest that their care receiver be referred to a professional. The caregiver can play a role in beginning the needed process and hopeful road to recovery.
How often does a Stephen Minister visit their care receiver?
Guidelines show that on on one weekly visits are most often the norm. Care givers share, however, that if something extremely important arises, care givers should call as needed. Each team decides what is best for them. Perhaps later in the relationship, even periodic phone calls could ensure that care receivers are doing OK, but may still want the crutch of having their Stephen Minister.
Will my Stephen Minister become my close friend?
Stephen Ministers are doing the work of the Lord and must follow certain and well-defined guidelines. These care givers are not casual visitors. However, sometimes people have moved from the Stephen Ministry relationship into a true friendship.
Can a different Stephen Minister be assigned?
Sometimes life changes, personalities, new and different needs or unknown factors deem that the care giver would receive a different Stephen Minister.
What type of people choose to become Stephen Ministers?
Most any caring person can become a Stephen Minister. Three important considerations include understanding the time commitment with you and your family, ability to be non-judge mental and to listen assertively, and that the minister not become too personally attached thereby being unable to do their duty of providing needed support.
Stephen Ministers, through extension of pastoral care, encourage people to take positive steps. Pastor Phillips will visit with you and answer any questions regarding this important and needed ministry. The training prepares you to help your care receiver, but it also helps with many issues within your own personal life.
Stephen Ministers are needed at Gloria Dei. Prayerfully consider whether this is something God would want you to do at this time. Also, if you are in need of a Stephen Minister, do not be afraid. A quick email or spending a few minutes with Pastor Phillips will open the door for help you may need.
Ministering to Those
Who are Experiencing:
• Loneliness
• Loss of a spouse
• Retirement changes
• Unemployment
• Discouragement
• Childbirth
• Hospitalization
• Divorce
• Grief
• Terminal Illness
• Being shut-in
We are Here to Help:
If you are experiencing a challenging time, contact Pastor Phillips. With your permission, he will assign you a caring Stephen Minister. All conversations are completely confidential.
We are Here to Help:
A Stephen minister is a Christian who has
received extensive training to help those in need.
Contact: Pastor Phillips
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church
8301 Aurora Ave.
Urbandale, IA 50322
515-276-1700
www.gloriadeionline.com |
