Fifteen Reasons Why I Appreciate Stephen Ministry

by Mary Lou Wiese

Reason number one is Kent Gilbert. Our pastor has supported Stephen Ministry from the beginning of the project. He took five days to go to St.Louis and be trained with Betty Hibler, Jeff From, and myself. He also kept Union Church going while putting in ten hour days in St. Louis. His understanding of the need for one-on-one personal ministry and his support helped forge a solid commitment from the church.

Reasons number two and three are Betty Hibler and Jeff From. Betty’s management and communication skills made possible a consistent, thorough, and well-organized approach to publicizing, recruiting, interviewing and training Ministers. Jeff From brought his calm, patient, and confident manner to the program. He has provided technical support and teaching ability to the process. His unflappable personality makes him invaluable in keeping the program strong.

Then there are the “great eight,” our nickname for the first group of Stephen Ministers. Carla Gilbert, pastor and chaplain, brought her wealth of pastoral experience to the group. She also brought her keen desire to build people up for their own good and the good of the church, community, and the world.

Ellen Mink brought her project management ability, sense of humor, and determination to the group.Delores Carpenter brought her years of experience as a social worker, incredible patience, and gentleness to the group. Jennifer Melton brought her cheerfulness, thoughtfulness, and willing vulnerability to the group. Lisa Vaughn brought her giant heart, sense of fun, and management skills to us. Donna Abner brought kindness, willingness to go the extra mile, and a sense of purpose. Paul Jacobs brought his humility, wit, and ability to endure in the face of obstacles with him.What became abundantly clear in the first group was that God had sent each of these to us and to their care receivers and that he was the one doing the work.

The second group, nicknamed the “fantastic four,” brings their own strengths to Stephen Ministry. Jennifer Eich brings her skill as a psychologist, her observation and listening skills, and her compassion to the group. Amy Williams brings courage, order, and tenacity. John Payne brings humor, wisdom, and concern for others. Susan Pross Kramer brings warmth, compassion, and a deep love for the people of Union Church.

Recently our church Sunday was devoted to the concept that we belong together. Many of us have the potential to be Stephen Ministers. Most of us will have at some time the need for a Stephen Minister. We have been given gifts so that we can offer them to others. We also need the gifts of others to be our best. Please do not hesitate to ask for one of our Stephen Ministers whenever a need arises. Please consider applying as a Stephen Minister if you hear the voice of God calling you to share your gifts. We belong to each other, we are the church, and we are blessed beyond measure.