Stephen Ministry at First Church

Stephen Ministry is a program of First Church of Christ in Wethersfield that equips lay persons to provide distinctively Christian care to those experiencing all kinds of difficulties in life - both in our congregation and our community. Stephen Ministry helps meet the needs of individuals who are: hospitalized; seriously ill or disabled; bereaved; in a life transition; in a job crisis; experienci

ng a broken relationship; new members of the church; homebound; lonely; in a spiritual crisis; looking for a caring, Christian friend. You can help a friend or family member who is in need by making a referral, or you can find help for yourself by making an inquiry:

Contact our Stephen Ministry Referral and Inquiry Coordinator, Marti Bernardi. Using Christian Resources, skills are developed in listening objectively, understanding feelings, honest communication, crisis theory and intervention, as well as, how to encourage steps of growth and change. The class format includes lecture, followed by discussion and application in small group settings. Training and Service Requirements: 1. Completion of a 50-hour training program in the evenings held weekly. 2. A two-year commitment of service once the training program is satisfactorily completed and you have been commissioned by the church. 3. Meet weekly in a one-on-one helping relationship. (Usually for one hour at a mutually agreeable time and place) 4. Attend bi-monthly supervisory meetings for continued education, support, and supervision. If you are interested in using your spiritual gifts faith, mercy, teaching the faith, encouragement, or knowing, consider becoming a Stephen Minister. Contact the Caring Ministries office at 860-529-1575.