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Parish Care

We are as well known for our "in-reach" as we are for our extensive outreach ministries.  Parish Care is comprised of a wonderful group of volunteers from St. Gabriel's who provide support in so many ways for our fellow parishioners.  The spirit of our in-reach ministry is to extend a helping hand or help lift up other members of our congregation.  Often, this ministry is extended in a time of need.  Parish Care reflects helping hands to deliver a meal to a parishioner and their family when illness or other challenges are encountered.  Others on our teams assist with needed transportation for a parishioner, provide prayers and caring communications.  Our teams are also involved in supporting Sunday Refreshments and special events including wedding receptions, funeral gatherings and Baptism receptions.  Wherever Parish Care members are gathered, you will probably find food, a little wine, a whole lot of love, motivation and prayer. 

Stephen Ministry

St. Gabriel's has had a Stephen Ministry for about 6 years.  At the present time, we have one trained Stephen Leader and six trained Stephen Ministers.  Stephen Ministry was named for "Stephen" who was appointed by the Apostles to provide a caring ministry.  Stephen Ministry is headquartered out of St. Louis, MO.  It is not exclusive to the Episcopal Church.  It is present in over 7,000 congregations, comprised of all denominations, worldwide. 

What is a Stephen Minister?  A Stephen Minister is a lay person who has been trained in 40 sessions over four to five months to work one on one with individuals.  They do not work with couples, families, young children, or teenagers.  They are assigned gender specifically ---- men to men and women to women.  CONFIDENTIALITY is of supreme importance in a caregiver/care receiver relationship.  No one in the congregation will ever know of a care giver's relationship to a care receiver.  Stephen Ministers are trained to be listeners.  They provide support and companionship for as long as it is needed.  Whether it is the loss of a job, a lifestyle change, loss of a loved one, move to a new city, or other need, the Stephen Minister is listen and help the individual clarify their feelings and explore their options.  If you are interested in obtaining a Stephen Minister, training to be a Stephen Minister, or just need more information on Stephen Ministry, please reach out to our Parish Administrator.

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