Stephen Befriender Ministry

Our Stephen Befriender Ministry has been in place at St. Matthew's for 14 years. Our ministry is a LISTENING SERVICE for those who are facing traumatic or difficult events in their lives such as the death of a loved one, divorce, major illness or injury or even the loss of a job.

Often the event might not appear to be as serious as most people might expect, but is extremely difficult for the person going through it. For instance, placing a parent in a nursing home or dealing with problems in your children's lives. Sometimes, family and friends are too close to the situation to listen objectively, and sometimes a person is without family or friends.

Our ministers are trained to listen with an open and understanding ear. We are NOT PROFESSIONAL COUNSELORS and we don't give advice. If a person needs counseling, we will encourage that person to seek professional help, but we will remain in place as additional support.

Our ministers are trained in STRICT CONFIDENTIALITY. No one in the ministry knows whom an individual minister is assigned to, except the coordinator. The minister, who is assigned, keeps whatever is said or takes place during a visit, in strict confidence.

If there is anyone who would be interested in becoming a Stephen Befriender or if you know of anyone that is in need of a Minister, please contact the Parish Office.

.

Contact: Judy Goolsbey

Phone: 436-0546

 

Back