“Indeed the word of God is living and effective.” This quote from today’s second reading hit home for me when asked to write a few words on why I was drawn to Stephen Ministry! We will all, at some point in our lives, experience suffering, it is part of the human condition. When we find ourselves in those moments of hardship and struggle, we can sometimes feel very alone, separated and isolated from those around us and even from God. Such was the case for me after my 51 year old brother passed away from cancer. Trying to be a support for his wife and two small children, I found myself in a very hard place spiritually and emotionally.
Because of the guidance and companionship of those I believe Jesus put in my path, my grief and suffering, are being transformed into strength and goodness. This is the way God intends for us to journey, in the knowledge of His love and mercy, through the hearts of one another. When approached to be a part of Stephen Ministry here at St Clare, the answer was easy, YES! Stephen Ministry is the living and effective word of God; it is God’s love in Action!
With peace, Patty Bodien, Stephen Ministry Leader