"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all consolation, who consoles us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to console those who are in any affliction with the consolation with which we ourselves are consoled by God."            II Corinthians 1:3-4

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St. Noel's Stephen Ministry is composed of the following trained and dedicated members of our community.

Fran Armbruster, Stephen Leader

Dorothy Badger

Helene Cicero

Howard Fagan

Joe Gornik

Mira Kosem

Candice Minello

Barb Myers

Maggi Prendergast on leave

Ray Prendergast on leave

Mary Rupnow

Kate Strazisar, on leave

Sharon Waltermire, Stephen Leader

Our church community is like a gem, a precious stone. We have many facets that reflect the richness and sparkle from the rays of light and hope our ministries offer our congregation. Let us be aware of the offerings that Stephen Ministry holds out as a gift of God's love to be opened when the time is that moment of needing someone to just be there.

WHAT IS THE STEPHEN MINISTRY? A one-to-one ministry using caring parishioners, who are trained to help in a professional, totally confidential way focusing on the unique needs of each person and responding to Jesus' command to "Love One Another as I Have Loved You."

WHO IS A STEPHEN MINISTER? A Christian lay person who, through training, learns skills and develops his or her gifts for bringing a caring supportive presence to those in need.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN STEPHEN MINISTRY TRAINING? Intensive training in such skills as listening, assertiveness, professionalism, confidentiality, use of community resources and the use of prayer and Scripture in care giving. Continuing education and ongoing supervision are also a part of Stephen ministry.

WHO MIGHT ASK FOR A STEPHEN MINISTER? A person experiencing some crisis in their life: death of a loved one. . loss of a job. . .divorce. . .childbirth. . .hospitalization. . .terminal illness. A person who is lonely or suffering from depression. . . a shut-in. Persons who feel the need for some support and encouragement in their day-to-day living with its ups and downs.

WHO TO CONTACT IF I HAVE A NEED FOR STEPHEN MINISTRY? You may contact any staff member or any of the following Stephen Leaders:

Fran Armbruster - Referral Coordinator 440-625-1228

Sharon Waltermire 440-286-4801

What do Stephen Ministers do?
Stephen Ministers:
Listen
Explore Feelings
Pray
Share Christ's Love
Maintain Confidentiality
Attend to the caregiving process
and leave the results to God