Ministries of Pastoral Care

Lay Eucharistic Visitors

The Lay Eucharistic Visitors (LEVs) administer communion to the sick and shut-in members of the church. LEVs are asked to serve once a month. Some training and licensing is required. LEVs are responsible for:

• Preparing themselves spiritually for their ministry
• Sharing with joy scripture and prayer as a reflection of God’s comfort and love
• Keeping the sick and shut-in informed of church news and affirming their importance within the church family
• Recording visits and reporting the needs and concerns of the sick and shut-in

Stephen Ministers

In Stephen Ministry congregations, lay caregivers (called Stephen Ministers) provide one-to-one Christian care to the bereaved, hospitalized, terminally ill, separated, divorced, unemployed, relocated, and other members facing a crisis or life challenge. Stephen Ministry helps clergy and congregations provide quality pastoral care for as long as people need it. St. James’ commissioned its first class of Stephen Ministers in June, 2008 after nearly six months of training.

St. James is eager to continue a strong Stephen Ministry Leadership Team and that means we must begin to begin to bring new people onto the Team. If you are ready to learn more about being a Stephen Ministry Leader, or you are in need of a Stephen Minister’s comfort during a difficult time, please call our Rector at the church office 410-523-4588.