contributed by Linda Horton
When was the last time that someone really listened to you? I’m talking about the undistracted, full-attention kind of listening.
In July of this year, Stephen Ministries held their 200th Stephen Leader’s Training Course (LTC). I was fortunate to be there. Present were 304 people from 32 states plus Canada, as well as two other countries. This was one of those real, “mountain-top” experiences. I had already been through Stephen Minister training which was extensive and challenging, but the LTC was the icing on the cake. The work was hard, the hours were long, and it was life-changing. Every day, my sense of purpose and blessedness increased.
What came home to me even more than before was that I had been through many times in my own life when I could really have used a Stephen Minister, and will undoubtedly go through many challenging times in the future. We all have times when we struggle and wonder if God is even listening to us. Stephen Ministers help us realize that God is with us, that God cares deeply for us, that we’re not alone. We never have to go it alone. A Stephen Minister usually meets one-on-one with a care receiver once a week for about an hour for as long as they are needed, men with men and women with women. The Stephen Minister typically has one care receiver at a time. Confidentiality is key. During the meeting, he/she is focused on YOU. The Stephen Minister listens to YOU and prays for YOU.
Stephen Ministers are laypeople who are accepting, active listeners, who help people during the long journey through a life crisis. They don’t offer advice or try to solve problems. Their goal is to be a conduit of God’s love and walk alongside a person in need. When you talk with a Stephen Minister, she/he REALLY LISTENS. When was the last time that someone really listened to you? I’m talking about the undistracted, full attention kind of listening. It may have been a while.
The Fig has had an active Stephen Ministry for more than 20 years. Your Stephen Ministers and Stephen Leaders are dedicated members of the Fig who have had intensive training in Christ-centered care for those in need.
If you are having a difficult time and think that you might benefit from having a Stephen Minister, please reach out and contact Liz O’Donnell at (972) 233-1898, extension 222.