WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BECOME A STEPHEN MINISTER
AND WHAT DO YOU RECEIVE IN RETURN?

OK, admit it. Stephen Ministry has crossed your mind a few times. You might even have picked up a brochure or talked with on of our pastors or even a Stephen Leader about it. But now you want to take a closer look at the idea of becoming a Stephen Minister. You are wondering: Is this right for me? Following are some guidelines that might help you in your decision-making.

GIFTS

A Stephen Minister is a person with the gift of mercy, who shows compassion and gives encouragement to and intercedes for those he or she case for. Many Stephen Ministers say they they receive much more from the caring relationship with their care receiver than they give.

COMMITMENT

A Stephen Minister devotes time, energy, and resources to this ministry. In return, a Stephen Minster has the chance to participate in meaningful ministry, make a major difference in another person's life, and grow as a joyous child of God.

TRAINING

A Stephen Minister completes 50 hours of training before ever meeting with a care receiver. He or she learns about listening, assertiveness, confidentiality, boundaries, and many other aspects of care giving. After completing the initial training, there is continuing education. Stephen Ministers find that their relationships become richer and deeper at home, church, work and with friends!

AUGUST 2007 STEPHEN MINISTRY ECUMENICAL TRAINING

Beginning with a retreat at Camp Rockfish, August 17-19, Bethesda Presbyterian , Community Presbyterian, Emmanuael Episcopal, Pinehurst UMC and SPUMC will come together to begin our next Stephen Ministry Training. We will then meet every Tuesday evening at different churches from &-9:30 p.m.

We finish our 50 hours of training on Tuesday, November 20, and this new class will then be commissioned on Sunday, December 2, 2007 at both morning worship services.

Won't you prayerfully consider joining this special ministry? For further information, please contact Rev. David Goehring or Erin Shore, 692-3518 or Myron and Barbara Dice, 215-9655. All inquires are considered confidential.