Pastoral Care

Stephen Ministry:
A pastoral care ministry for lay people



The Congregation of St. Saviour is planning to offer training to congregation members who are called to God's work in pastoral care as a Stephen minister. Those men and women who answer Jesus' call to serve as Stephen ministers begin their work with 50 hours of stimulating and useful training in Christian caring skills. Judith Scott, the Rev. Canon Storm Swain, and I will lead this training, which includes a variety of topics such as: listening; Christian assertiveness; maintaining boundaries in care giving; and grief. The training is distinctively Christian and focuses on God as the One who cures as we care.

When the Stephen ministers have completed their training, they will be commissioned and ready to begin their ministry. Working under supervision, these Stephen ministers will be available to meet weekly with persons experiencing such problems including, but not limited to:

Stephen ministers commit to at least two years for training, service and regular supervision. Many Stephen ministers enjoy their ministry so much that they choose to serve beyond the two years. While being a Stephen minister requires commitment of time and effort, it also brings joy and fulfillment. It may be one of the most rewarding challenges you will ever embrace. In addition, you will use the skills you learn not only in your caring ministry, but also in your everyday relationships with family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. You will also grow spiritually when you serve as a Stephen minister. When God calls us to God's service, God gives us the faith and the gifts we need to do God's will.

You are invited to think and pray about this opportunity. We will have application forms available at the Congregation table in June. You can also obtain an application by calling Adriana Sween in the Congregation office (212-316-7483). The application deadline is July 17. We are looking forward to seeing God's work unfold in the lives of those who undertake this ministry, and in the lives of those who will receive care from our Stephen ministers.

Elizabeth Salzer
Eajsalzer@aol.com

Check here for the current schedule or call the Congregation Office 212-316-7483.

For more information about becoming a member or receiving pastoral care contact our Pastor, The Rev. Storm Swain @ 212-316-7456 or via email at pastor@stjohndivine.org