On Saturday, October 12, Mark Heim, Donna Vello and I (Eunice Wilson) attended an introductory workshop of Stephen Ministry. It was a morning well spent. In the large group we learned about how this ministry trains persons to minister to those in need, i.e., those who have lost a loved one, were recently divorced, lost their job, or lost their faith. We watched video testimonials from some individuals saying how much the Ministry meant to them and how it helped them to deal with the difficult situation they were in. And, then, one on one we shared a happy personal event and one of concern with someone we just met that day, and then we prayed with and for one another.
Stephen Ministry is a not-for-profit Christian training and educational organization founded in 1975. Its mission is to train and equip those who believe their ministry is to visit the sick, widowed, and lonely persons in their congregations and neighborhoods. The name of this organization is taken from the story in Acts 6 where Stephen and six other disciples were chosen to specifically look after the widows who were being neglected.
A "Stephen Minister" gives a person one hour a week at designated time, often for one year. The minister learns to listen, to be present, and to pray with the individual. For FBC, you might ask, how can Stephen Ministry be of benefit to us? Many have signed up to be on a Caring List via email, to be kept informed when others request help and prayers. Is it possible that you might have a desire to hone your caring skills on a deeper level? Might you be someone who would like to go to a workshop where you would learn these specific skills? Listen to your heart, talk with Mark, Donna, Sean or me, or ask to see the material brought back from the workshop.