Northstar is conducting our third Stephen Ministry Training in April. Stephen Ministry, named after Stephen in the New Testament who was dedicated to the care and service of others, equips members of the congregation to provide confidential, one-to-one Christian care to individuals within the congregation and community who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. It is a great way of extending Christ’s love and support to those who are hurting and in need of extra support.
The initial training will be conducted over the course of several weekends and will equip individuals with basic Christian care giving skills. After participating in the training, Stephen ministers are carefully matched with care receivers by gender and pertinent life experiences. They meet with their care receivers weekly for approximately one hour. Additionally, Stephen Ministers receive ongoing group supervision which is held monthly on Sunday mornings.
Stephen Ministry blesses and benefits Northstar in multiple capacities. As it was originally intended to do, it takes the burden off church staff for being the sole providers of care to the congregation by providing a team of gifted, trained and committed lay caregivers to minister to hurting people. It allows church members to use their spiritual gifts to serve both God and others and most importantly people who are hurting no longer suffer alone.
If you are interested in participating in the Stephen Ministry Training, please contact Katie Hixson (khixson@northstarfamily.org) by March 22.
