Wesley has recently begun Stephen Ministry, a Christian lay care-giving program. Stephen Ministers offer care and support for people experiencing life’s difficulties. They have received 50 hours of intensive training covering such topics as effective listening, confidentiality, feelings, and utilizing community resources.

Stephen Ministry is a confidential ministry; those receiving care can be sure that their identity will remain private. In addition to the initial training, Stephen Ministers participate in twice-monthly continuing education and supervision support sessions as they strive to provide the highest quality of care.

We commissioned nine Stephen Ministers at Wesley in June, 2009. We expect our Stephen Ministry to be a source of additional warmth and blessing in the Wesley community.

If you are interested or have questions about the Stephen Ministry at Wesley, please contact the church office at 703-938-8700 or send an e-mail to the Stephen Ministry team. One of the Stephen Leaders, Fran Kashchy or Cathy Bowen, will contact you as soon as possible. Also, if you know someone who needs care and support at this time, please let us know.

Visit the Stephen Ministry web site at www.stephenministries.org for more information.

Stephen Ministry Moments

How do a make a referral to Stephen Ministry??

If you are aware of an individual who is going through a hard time, you may wonder what the procedure is to put them in touch with Wesley’s Stephen Ministry program.

First of all, talk with the friend yourself and get his or her permission for you to give his name to Stephen Ministry. Or, give the individual the contact information so he can contact us directly.

Next, and very importantly, you would give his name to only one person: Pastor Ray, Fran Kashchy, or Cathy Bowen. The person’s name or problem should NEVER be discussed with another individual. This rule is to maintain the strictest confidentiality that is required by Stephen Ministry.

After that, one of the Stephen Leaders (Fran or Cathy) will call the individual and set up a time to meet with them. They will meet and discuss Stephen Ministry. Then, if Stephen Ministry is appropriate in the situation, the Stephen Leader will prayerfully assign a Stephen Minister to meet with the person on a regular basis. The Stephen Minister will contact the person and begin the caring relationship.

Contact stephenministry@wesleyvienna.com for more information.