Community of Hope - A School for God's Service
Everyone ministers to someone --- spouse, child, parent, friend, neighbor. As committed Christians, we are called to use the gifts that God has given us. In order to be competent ministers, we need continual training. For those who feel called to expand and deepen their circle of caring, the Community of Hope offers a time for spiritual discovery, opportunities for learning, and a community for sharing. The Community of Hope trains Lay Chaplains to serve in St. Matthew's as well as in the wider community. It is an expression of our deep desire to
"To know Christ, grow in Christ, and share Christ's love."
The Lay Chaplain's Role
As Lay Chaplains, members of the Community of Hope extend care to those in need and provide spiritual nourishment and encouragement during times of stress, change and crisis. Through compassionate, empathetic listening and appropriate action, Lay Chaplains journey with those in need, helping them strengthen their faith and supporting them as they search for God's mercy, grace, love and power.
A Time for Training
The training brings together clergy, lay staff, and community specialists to serve as faculty and to contribute their expertise. Participants are given the opportunity to practice supportive techniques for helping others. As members deepen their spirituality and pursue self-discovery, they begin visits to others while practicing principles of active listening, spiritual support, and prayer.
The course requires commitment to several months of classroom and practical training including a wide range of interactive exercises, role-playing, worship experiences, and supervised pastoral care visits. Registration fee is $50 (scholarships available). Call the church office (345-8314) to register. Registration is on a first-come-first-served basis. For more information, contact
The Rev. Susan Barnes
or Sharon Lowe.
