Shepherds and Saints

The Shepherd ministry has been a ministry of visitation to those who are hospitalized, to supplement visits from the Pastor. Ascension has now added another dimension to the ministry to reach those members who find they can no longer participate in the church life at their desired level. Whatever their situation, these “Saints” would like to continue their relationship with Ascension, and in this voluntary Saints and Shepherds ministry they are matched with a Shepherd who makes regular visits and phone contacts. Shepherds are also trained and equipped to offer Communion in the home or hospital. Members who have completed the Shepherd training may volunteer for just the Hospital visitation ministry, or for the Saints and Shepherds home visitation ministry, or for both.

The purpose of the Saints and Shepherds ministry is to demonstrate God’s love and to help the Saint maintain and/or revitalize their relationship with Ascension. Through their phone calls and visits, Shepherds will be instrumental in helping the Saints continue to feel a part of the church. The overall mission is to share God’s love and grace.

Some members only need visitation for a limited time. Others who are in long-term situations receive a monthly visit from their Shepherd and pastoral visits as requested. The Shepherds assist the pastor by making these visits, but do not replace pastoral care. Pastoral visits are always scheduled when requested.

Who are the shepherds? Shepherds are men and women who are members of Ascension and have completed training for this ministry. We currently have 9 active shepherds, and more are needed to meet the needs of Ascension's members. Anyone who feels a true calling for this ministry is welcome to participate as a Shepherd. Monthly meetings are held at the church on the fourth Tuesday of each month from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. in the Adult Lounge. These meetings are open to anyone who would like to come and learn more about this ministry. Come and meet our current Shepherds: Lloyd Angel, Ray Bachtel, Hope Boring, Ida Ford, Irene Guiler, Ruth Ann and Fred Helser, Roz Horn, Tom Huss, Dave Kern, Barb Kittner, Phil Lebold, Nancy Olsen, Robin Ringe, Ginnie Schaffer, and Curt Skarloken

What training is necessary?

Training requirements for this ministry include completion of a workshop based on the Listening For Heaven's Sake course, followed by a brief orientation session with Pastor Tim. The next opportunity to take the half-day Listening workshop will be in the fall of 2007. Everyone who has taken the Listening course before has said that the listening skills are very helpful in all aspects of their lives. Please call the church office at 262-7389 if you would like to learn more about this ministry, or talk to one of the Shepherds. Better yet — come to our monthly meeting on the 4th Tuesday of the month — all are welcome!

What are the advantages for the Saints?

Receive support in their spiritual journey and through changing life events

Contact with the church; learn current happenings

Express their opinions on church matters

Enter into a new relationship (with the Shepherd)

Receive Communion at home

What are the advantages for Shepherds?

Carrying out the Commandment to love one another; spiritual growth

Enter into a new relationship (with the Saint)

Provide a sacrament

How is this ministry implemented?

Saints who wish to receive home visitation from a Shepherd may request it themselves, or their names may be suggested by friends or family members. Others may be identified from the Pastoral Care list. All candidates for the ministry receive a letter describing the ministry with an opportunity to accept or decline. After acceptance, the Pastor and Shepherd Coordinator recommend a suitable Shepherd match. The Shepherd makes phone contact, and arranges a time to visit. Personal visits are made at least once a month, with phone contact between visits. Communion will be offered when requested. Shepherds, like pastors, maintain confidentiality at all times. Each Shepherd commits to one year of service. A review and assessment is done at 12 months after beginning a relationship to determine the need/desire for the Saint to continue with a Shepherd.