For those of you who are in the midst of a temporary trying time, some kind of crisis, or a longtime series of problems, it is often helpful to have someone to talk to. The problem is, most of the people you normally talk to are either tired of listening or are part of the difficulties.
One possible solution is asking for a Stephen Minister to be available to talk to. Our congregation has about a dozen Stephen Ministers all trained to be listeners, caring friends, who are willing to take the time just for you to listen.
Each Stephen Minister can offer to you a caring person who will listen and keep your information confidential, being there to pray with you if you like, and certainly there to offer a hug and a quiet sharing opportunity when you need it.
The program is so powerful and so important that PBS, the Public Broadcasting System has made a video story about it that is currently at their website.
http://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/episodes/april-9-2010/stephen-ministries/6044/
There are other resources there as well that help tell the story of a program and people whose whole purpose for being is to offer caring when you need it most. If you are in need of a listener, or know someone who is, make sure you watch this video and give one of our Stephen Leaders a call. Contact the church for phone numbers or email addresses.
0 comments:
Post a Comment