The Christian care giving ministry at Christ Lutheran Church in Woodburn has grown recently. Twelve new Stephen Ministers were commissioned on May 22. These new lay caregivers join fifteen active Stephen Ministers (includes four Stephen Leaders) already commissioned and serving at Christ. The newly commissioned Stephen Ministers are; Keith and Pam Bohren, Marry Bottoms, Carolyn Bridge, Tracy Gustin, Richard Hoeppner, Wendy McConnell, Judy Norden, Brad and Chris Ripke, Joyce Schaff, and Deb Wilkes.
“Stephen Ministry training is transformational for the entire congregation in that individuals who have been equipped through the program bring their bible based wisdom and real life experiences to bear in other areas of service within the church. The training enhances the believer’s ability to more thoroughly inquire and understand the Scriptures in other areas such as Worship, Corporate Bible Study and Small Group interaction. I t drives the individual more deeply into God’s Word to learn and reflect. It also inspires them to look to the world for practical application. Benefits of this training have enhanced the spiritual growth and the ability of individuals who presently serve on our Board of Elders, Church Council, and other ministry areas within our Congregation. I have been blessed to see this program in action not only here at Christ Lutheran but also other congregations before my arrival. It is a high impact, scripturally based, servant led ministry that transforms internally and externally both the individual and the congregation. I am confident that as this program expands so does our ability to minister to each other and to the world.” Pastor Tim Edwards, Christ Lutheran Church
Stephen Ministers offer care and support for people experiencing life difficulties such as death of a love one, job crisis, divorce, aging, long term illness or for those needing the support of a Christian friend and much more. Stephen ministers receive 50 hours of training before commissioning and will continue to grow and learn through continuing education and supervision each month.
Christ Lutheran Church expects its Stephen ministry to continue to be a source of care and blessing for many years to come, enabling the entire congregation and community to grow where people are cherished and cared for and their need taken seriously, all in the name of Christ.
If you are interested or have more questions about the Stephen Ministry at Christ Lutheran Church, or if you know someone who needs care and support at this time please call Christ Lutheran Church at 260-632-4821.
Christ Lutheran Church Hard at work during this year’s summerfest
Members are seen here hard at work preparing CLC’S famous Onion Rings. Christ Lutheran Church of Woodburn acknowledges all who helped out in any way and supported our efforts to make this endevor a success. All the tears slicing onions to the hands that skillfully prepared the sloppy joe’s and to all that helped out in our booth frying the onion rings serving sandwiches making the root beer floats, CLC appreciates your help!
