STEPHEN MINISTRY I am writing this in the middle of Holy Week. My thoughts have gone to wondering about the feelings of those who had witnessed the death of Jesus but had not yet experienced the resurrection. Anger at the Jewish leaders, Pilate, the soldiers. Guilt in themselves for deserting Jesus as He was arrested, convicted, and crucified. Confusion as to what they would do next. The simple hurting pain of losing a loved one especially in such a horrific death. Fear of the Jewish leaders as they met in that upper room with the doors all locked. Anger, guilt, confusion, the pain of loss, fear of the future - these were probably just some of what was going through their minds at that time. These of course are the same feelings that flood over us as we face the loss of a loved one or one of many other upsetting experiences which come our way. Stephen ministers are trained to be a help to us in times when we face the feelings described above. We will have feelings and it is far better to face them and deal with them that to ignore them or bury them. The disciples found great relief when Jesus appeared and did not scold them or criticize them but said simply "Peace". By bringing the presence of Jesus with them, the Stephen minister can hopefully bring the same to us as we struggle: Peace! Pastor Jebsen |
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Sarah Stephenson serves as our Children's/Youth Ministry Coordinator and our Stephen Ministry Coordinator.
For more information contact the Church office (479-855-1325) or Sarah Stephenson (479-426-9072)
See any Stephen Minister to learn what it is like to be a Stephen Minister and what it's about.
See any Stephen Minister to learn what it is like to be a Stephen Minister and what it's about.
