Stephen Ministry is one to one distinctively Christian care and support for those experiencing life changes, crises and difficulties, serving members of our congregation, as well as member of the community. Stephen Ministers listen, understand, accept and pray with you while expressing God’s love and healing. Stephen Ministry is extremely confidential and all sharing and concerns are upheld with utmost respect and privacy.

Need Care and Support?

If you are experiencing a crisis or difficult time in your life and wish to receive care by a Stephen Minister, please contact Pastor Gigie Sijera-Grant at 410-465-2977 or ggrant@firstlutheranec.org. “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Divorce Care

Divorce Care and DC4K

First Lutheran’s Stephen Ministry is sponsoring DivorceCare and  DC4K (Divorce Care for Kids) beginning April 3, 2013.  These parallel programs run concurrently for 13 weeks.

Those at any stage of a divorce ~ from initial separation, recently divorced, or divorced for many years ~ may find that DivorceCare can help with the healing process.  This biblically-based seminar and support group features weekly videos that address various issues such as depression, anger, forgiveness, financial survival and loneliness.    Each confidential session includes discussion of the video, sharing, and mutual encouragement.

While the parent attends DivorceCare, children ages 5-12 can participate in DC4K.   Each week a video presents divorce-related topics from a child’s perspective. Caring adults facilitate discussion and offer support.  Children also learn about and discuss their feelings through fun activities such as crafts, music, role-playing, stories and games.  DC4K provides a safe, neutral place where children are validated as they process the divorce and learn to cope.

All are welcome to attend DivorceCare and DC4K.   To register or request additional information, please call First Lutheran Church at 410-465-2977 or visit  www.divorcecare.org or www.dc4k.org

Called to Serve?

If you are a member of First Evangelical Lutheran Church and feel that you may be called to serve as a Stephen Minister, please complete the application in the link below and return it to First Lutheran Church, ATTN: Pastor Gigie Sijera-Grant or email it to ggrant@firstlutheranec.org. The Stephen Ministry training requirements are: 50 hours of learning skills and concepts, participation in supervision meetings, a minimum of 2 years of service, commitment to preserving confidentiality and continuing education.

Stephen Minister Application