This week, I offer an “excursus”. It is not a side-bar, or a parenthetical musing, or an addendum. It is a “supplement” to your “regularly-scheduled blog”. I wish to reflect on Stephen Ministry.

In a way, it is a little mysterious, like Via De Cristo. For those of you who wondered but were afraid to ask, “What is Stephen Ministry?” It is providing distinctively Christian care for those who are hurting. A listening presence. Everybody, at one time or another, will need to be a care receiver. A Stephen minister comes alongside you to understand and encourage. During the “summer storms” of life, a caregiver brings hope, stability, and Biblical principles. We at Joy are blessed to have several folks trained to help us when we are going through grief, relationship challenges; anything that might throw our lives into a tailspin. Stephen Ministers are NOT counselors. They cannot or will not “fix” you. They help us navigate, co-pilot.

This is also great outreach for Joy. The program is strong, solid, and not some strange mumbo-jumbo that is strictly Lutheran. It is common sense, non-judgmental support. One does not need to be a member of the church to be in a Stephen Minister relationship. Visits are held in highest confidence; not even the pastor knows who is receiving and giving care from and to whom. It is same-gender. Ministry is multiplied. The pastor simply cannot provide this level of ongoing care to every person or member. It is discipling, and it is transformative for both the care receiver and the caregiver. No one is too “rough around the edges” to take advantage of this great program. Caregivers walk with you. They remain when family and friends have resumed their normal routines after the initial crisis. They reflect and re-present Christ to you. They are active, ongoing reminders that God loves you unconditionally.

Here ends the excursus.

Pastor Art
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