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But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. The Greek-speaking believers complained about the Hebrew-speaking believers, saying that their widows were being discriminated against in the daily distribution of food, So the Twelve called a meeting of all the believers. They said, We apostles should spend our time teaching the word of God, not running a food program. And so brothers, select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will give them this
responsibility. Then we apostles can spend our time in prayer and teaching the word.
Everyone liked this idea, and they chose the following: Stephen ...... -Acts 6: 1-5
The Stephen Ministry program was started to help Pastors with the care of their congregations. The name came from Stephen who was one of seven men picked by the disciples to help them care for people so they could spend more time in prayer and teaching the word. As Mac said last week, we go through rigorous training to learn how to really listen and be supportive. In non-pandemic years, we also have continuing education programs in conjunction with Johns Creek United Methodist Church. These consist of specialists from the community sharing with us what is available to help with issues our care receivers might have. We also have a reciprocal agreement with the Methodist church to provide Stephen Ministers to each others members should a person prefer to talk to someone who is not a member of their own church.
As a member of the first class of Stephen Ministers trained in this church I have had the privilege of walking alongside many members during their healing process. Doing this, plus meetings with other Stephen Ministers has enriched my life in many ways. If you think you would like to have someone meet, listen, or pray with you please contact one of the Stephen Ministry leaders, Rebecca Eldridge or David Lee. They would also be happy to talk to you if you think you might like to explore becoming a Stephen Minister.
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