Hello Gloria Dei,
Today I want to take a moment to highlight an important ministry here at Gloria Dei.
Gloria Dei has a long history of providing care and support through the Stephen Ministry program. Even though Stephen Ministry has been around for many years, many people are not aware of what Stephen Ministry is. I think this is because so much of the work of Stephen Ministers happens behind the scenes.
Stephen Ministers are trained lay caregivers who provide emotional and spiritual support to people going through difficult times in life, providing hope and healing amid their pain. One good way to describe Stephen Ministry is the after people.
STEPHEN MINISTERS ARE THERE
. . . . after the phone call in the middle of the night that changes life forever
. . . . after the baby comes home, demanding more of her than she ever imagined possible
. . . . after the funeral, when everyone has left and his emotions held at bay come crashing in
. . . . after the email announcing a new round of layoffs suddenly appears in her inbox
. . . . after the doctor says, “I’m sorry, but there’s nothing else we can do.”
. . . . after the youngest child pulls out of the hug and heads into the dorm—followed by a long drive back to an empty house
. . . . after the retirement community director says, “Welcome to your new home.”
. . .. after the divorce papers are served and she wonders if she’ll ever trust anyone again
. . . after family and friends have heard his story one too many times, but he still needs to talk it out
(resource by Stephen Ministries)
Through Stephen Ministry, Gloria Dei has a team of people who are there to provide faithful care and support during the “afters” in life. If you need someone to walk with you in one of these “afters” reach out to me or the church office and I would be happy to connect you with a caring Stephen Minister.
And if you have gifts of compassion, listening, and providing care. I’d love to talk with you more about becoming a Stephen Minister. Stephen Ministry is such an impactful way to share our gifts and care for others. Gloria Dei is planning for a fall training course for Stephen Ministry, so now is a great time to learn more.
This weekend we will be talking about prayer. Another important gift God gives us to care for ourselves and others. Please read Luke 11:1-13 to prepare for worship.
Have a great day Gloria Dei!
Pastor Amy
