The Caregiver’s Compass
Fall is here! It is exciting to read the September WMPC Monthly about all the new church activities. On Sunday between services, I loved seeing the kids and adults eating doughnuts, drinking lemonade and coffee, and laughing in the Hub and Courtyard. Many of the kids had grown so much I wasn’t sure who they were.
As Christopher said in his Kickoff Sunday sermon, “the past 2 ½ years have cost everyone a great deal.” Two and a half years is so long to not be together. We miss Passing the Peace, singing with the choir, attending Sunday School Classes, and praying the Lord’s Prayer in community. That Sunday, I didn’t know whether it was right to wear my mask or keep it in my pocket. Anxiety from Social Distancing for 2 ½ years! Where are we in helping each other stay healthy?
This leads me to Stephen Ministry. Stephen Ministry is active and growing at White Memorial. Through the pandemic, Stephen Ministers and their Care Receivers have met – at safe distances/via phone, Zoom, FaceTime, across the parking lot – to care for each other. The White Memorial Pastoral Staff has guided us in caring for those in need of someone to walk with them during trying, anxious, lonely, and/or grief-stricken times. WE are not alone. Stephen Ministers are trained laypeople that meet one-on-one with those going through a difficult period in their life as Christian caregivers.
The relationship and information exchange is free and confidential, a safe place to voice your thoughts and concerns. If you need someone to walk with you during a difficult part of your life’s journey there is a Stephen Minister ready to listen. You can contact Nancy Benninger at nmpeterson@gmail.com or Judy Yates Siker, Parish Associate, at jsiker@whitememorial.org.
If you feel God’s call to care for others in our congregation, the White Memorial Stephen Ministry Program is offering an SM Training Class beginning in January 2023. Please join us in Geneva Hall on October 3, for an Informational Gathering to learn more about our program. This will be an evening of great food, fellowship, and fun! Please reserve your spot by noon Thursday, September 29 at www.whitememorial.org/register.
“Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2
Peace and Hope!
Melinda Fox
Stephen Ministry Leadership Team