Stephen Ministry

SBUMC is enrolled in the Stephen Series, a complete system of training and organizing lay persons for caring munistry in and around their congregations. Stephen Ministry is a program that equips lay persons to provide distinctively Christian one-to-one care to those who are experiencing all kinds of life needs and circumstances, both in our congregation and community. Our Stephen Ministers work together with our pastors to reach more people with Christian care than pastors can reach by themselves.
 
Do you feel that you could benefit from Stephen Ministry? As the holidays approach and the stress levels rise, do you or someone you know feel that a Stephen Minister could help you through some difficult times?
 
Perhaps you feel a calling to be a Stephen Minister. If God is leading you in this direction, there is an opportunity for you to participate in future training sessions beginning February 1, 2004. You may speak to any of our Stephen Ministers to learn more about this Christ-centered ministry and how you may benefit from being involved.
 
Additional information can also be found in the pew racks, and the information center in the east narthex.

 Pastoral Counseling Center

Since January 1982, the Counseling Center has been faithfully fulfilling its charter: "whose purpose shall be to provide low-cost, Christian professional counseling to all who seek it, and further that no one be denied counseling for financial reasons." Costs are met through client fees, individual gifts and financial support of SBUMC via the general budget. The Center offers help with marriage, family and individual problems such as low self-esteem, depression, anger and financial difficulties. Dr. Chandler Welch, Director, heads a staff of expert counselors, which include Rev Virginia Derr-Kiessling, Mrs. Nancy McCormick, and Scott Sutherland. Liz Thibodeaux is the office administrator. The Center is located in Room 10 of the Children's Building, east of the church on Jackson Avenue. It is open by appointment, and can be reached at 777-0119.