Stephen Ministry—Revived at TTUMC After 20 Years

It has been 20 years since TTUMC had a vital Stephen Ministry, but those who were involved still feel the passion for the ministry burning inside.

Now a core of newly trained Stephen Leaders are ready to spread the same compassionate fire by training Stephen Ministers at TTUMC once again.

How It Caught Fire Again

Pastor St. Clair at the workshop in St. Petersburg with the Workshop speaker

In the past year, Pastor St. Clair Moore became intriqued with the possibilities of Stephen Ministry. In November, after having some discussions with Lois Mazur and others who expressed an interest in Stephen Ministry, Pastor called a meeting.

It was an open dialogue with the prior Stephen Leader, Lois Mazur, and with prior Stephen Ministers Jane Latina and Jane Reynolds, as well as with those who had an interest in exploring the revival of this ministry at our church. Eleven gathered at that meeting, where they learned about the love-centered caring, commitment and challenges experienced when TTUMC was engaged in the ministry approximately 20 years ago.

The spark was lit, the interest grew. As they listened to the proud voices communicating the meaningful care giving that was provided, along with the spiritual growth for both care giver and receiver, a question lingered….why weren't we doing this ministry today? The flame was ignited and the team voted to move forward to pursue re-launching, or reviving, Stephen Ministry.

Upon attending a Stephen Ministries workshop in St. Petersburg the following week, Pastor got additional insights from Stephen Minister representatives from the St. Louis organization. He received the necessary approvals to proceed--and here we are, ready to go!

The Stephen Leaders who recently received training are pictured here with Dr. Kenneth C. Haugk, the founder of Stephen Ministry. From left to right: Samantha Greene, Cindy Ross, Shields Clark, Dr. Haugk, Pastor St. Clair Moore, Yvette Moore, Andy Arace.