When I was asked to go to training, become a Stephen Ministry Leader, and start the ministry at our church, I really hadn’t heard of Stephen Ministry or known what it was all about. I was told it was a ministry of lay care givers who walk with people who are hurting and going through a difficult time. My father had just passed away a few weeks earlier, and I was feeling very sad. I thought to myself, “I wish I could have a Stephen Minister to talk to right now.” So I said yes, and in August 2010, I and four other people from our church went to Stephen Ministry Leader training in Pittsburgh. —Becky Tacca


What do you enjoy about being a Stephen Minister?


Well, that is easy—the fact that I was given the tools to become closer to God, be a better person, become stronger, and, most importantly, be a better listener. Not to mention what a wonderful group of people I get to spend time with, learn from, and grow spiritually alongside. —Tina Stephens


The training has been wonderful, with tips and suggestions on matters that can help in my personal dealings with family and friends. I like the camaraderie shared with other Stephen Ministers and the opportunity to learn from them. —Chris Bockstanz


I enjoy helping others with their care receivers and offering perhaps an alternative approach. Often I think when we are in the midst of our relationship, it helps to have input from a different perspective. —Beth Folio


What do you want people to know about Stephen Ministry?


People should know that the training materials and exercises are very carefully crafted. Stephen Ministers are trained in skills such as active listening that prove invaluable in dealing with care receivers. People who come to Stephen Ministers are dealt with in a compassionate, confidential, and professional manner.


—Chris Bockstanz


Stephen Ministry represents a safe haven, where someone who is hurting can share hurts and challenges in life with a care giver. —Tom Ritter


I feel extremely blessed to be a part of the Stephen Ministry program. I have never been involved in a ministry that is so dedicated to teaching and ministering to people of all faiths, colors, and walks of life. It is a totally confidential ministry that taught us how to care for the hurting and alone in our midst. The training we received left us equipped to minister to people who are experiencing difficult times in their lives. We learned that we as God’s people are the “hands and feet” in this world. Stephen Ministers are the care givers—and God is the “cure giver”!


—Kathy Hemphill


“And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all


the more as you see the Day approaching.” —HEBREWS 10:23–25


7


Stephen Ministry serves not only people in our church but also people in the community. So if members of our church know anyone in the community who is going through a difficult time, they are encouraged to tell that person about Stephen Ministry and have them contact the church if they are interested. —Becky Tacca


NEW CLASS TO BEGIN TRAINING


First Presbyterian is preparing to train a new class of Stephen Ministers. If you are interested in getting involved, please contact Rev. Lindsay Harren- Lewis for more information. Look for bulletin boards around the church building for more information on how to get involved.


Applications are available at the front desk of the church office and are due November 6. Interviews will be completed and the new class announced by November 27. Training begins in mid-January, with sessions held weekly on Thursday nights.


If you have questions or know of someone who could benefit from confidential one-to-one care and support, contact Lindsay Harren-Lewis at 610- 395-3781 or lindsay.harren- lewis@fpcallentown.org.


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12