Title: Stephen Minister
Purpose: To offer one on one care to those who are experiencing challenging circumstances
(Illness, grief, loss, transitions, vocational challenges, health concerns, divorce, separation, parenting issues, etc.).
Responsible to: Stephen Leaders – and Pastoral Team
Description of Duties:
Complete 50 hours of specialized training to become commissioned as a Stephen Minister
Offer one-on-one care and support to others.
Participate in monthly Stephen Ministry continuing education sessions and twice-monthly supervision group meeting to continuing enhancing skills as a Stephen Minister.
*Time Requirements:
Attendance at 2 supervision group meetings per month (1 ½ hours for each session)
Attendance at 1 Continuing Education session per month (1 ½ hours per month)
Meet with a Care Receiver approximately once per week for one hour
Term: The Stephen Ministry Commitment following training is a minimum of two years. Stephen Ministers are welcomed to serve longer than two years. Most individuals in the ministry choose to serve for three years or longer.
Training and Resources:
Approximately every 18 months to 2 years a new Stephen Ministry Training Class is offered at St. Luke’s. The training, based on Christian faith, includes 50 hours of preparation on a variety of skills that are not only helpful for the one-on-one care ministry but also for one’s relationships with friends, family, and colleagues.
Skills and gifts:
Supporting others through difficult times, listening, encouraging, patience, humor, and compassion.
Faith
Discernment
Healing
Helps
Intercession
Benefits to one serving in this role:
Being part of a committed team
Offering care and compassion to members of our community and beyond
In-depth training that applies to ministry and to life
Building relationships
Completed by/date: August 24, 2011