A Letter from the Associate Pastor

As we begin a New Year our congregation has undertaken a new and exciting ministry. In December, First Presbyterian Church of Salem, Oregon enrolled in the Stephen Series. The Stephen Series system trains and organizes lay people to do caring ministry in our church and community. Those training for Stephen Ministry will learn skills and develop their talents for bringing Christ's healing love to folks who are grieving, depressed, or experiencing other stresses in life. Before we begin training our members to be Stephen Ministers we will be sending Karen Pollan, R. Gaskins, Candace Ludtke, and Kinsey Miller to an intensive seven-day Leader's Training Course in Portland, Oregon January 27 - February 2. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they prepare themselves for this challenging and exciting week of training.

This ministry was made possible because many people and committees realized the need for and worth of the Stephen Ministry system in our church. A small group of Deacons studied the Stephen Ministry system and recommended that it be implemented in our church, and the Deacons were the first group to allocate funds. The Mission & Outreach, Christian Education and Special Needs committees also contributed to the start up funds.

This ministry will equip the saints to care for the hurting. This ministry will provide excellent Christian Education and the opportunity to grow in faith. And through this ministry we can reach out to folks beyond our church walls.

Karen Pollan