Stephen Ministry is an international, ecumenical program that provides one-to-one, Christ-centered care to people experiencing life difficulties. Glen Mar has had a Stephen Ministry program since 1988! Through our membership in a Howard County consortium of Stephen Ministry churches, we provide 50 hours of training to those who feel called to join us in care-giving.

Our current training class began in September and ends right before Ash Wednesday. Our trainees hone skills and learn about specific challenges that life may bring. These include, but are not limited to, the skill of listening, understanding the wide variety of human feelings, the critical importance of confidentiality, and details about specific stresses such as grief, illness, job loss, divorce, and challenges related to aging. Our goal is for trainees to become  skilled caregivers, full of compassion and trustworthiness, with the sure faith that God is the ultimate cure-giver.

On Sunday, March 17, we will commission Laura King, Dawn Schanné, and Alison Zuzak at the 9:30 service. Anne Walters will also be reconnecting with Stephen Ministry after a long hiatus. Join us in congratulating them and remember that during times of stress and trouble, Stephen Ministers are here to listen and pray with you.