Ministries: Congregational Care Ministry

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Health Ministries

Yoga -

An ancient practice for uniting the body and mind which allows for self awareness, focus, and stress reduction. Even more than exercise, it can produce profound changes in all aspects of ourselves. This class is for all levels, especially for those who "can't even touch my toes" since all poses can be modified to suit your individual needs. Investment: $90/10 weeks or $15/drop-ins. Classes meet Mondays, 5:30 – 6:30 pm or Wednesdays, 9:45 - 10:45 am.  For more information, call the church.

Need to Borrow Durable Medical Equipment? -

The St. Andrew Health Ministries Team has assembled equipment that is available to the St. Andrew family for borrowing. Please contact Diane S., or the receptionist to borrow any of the following equipment. When you are finished using it, please return it to the same person at St. Andrew.

Wheelchair
Walker
Clamp-on Tub Rail
Bath Bench
3 in 1 Commode
Raised Toilet Seat
Cane - several types
Crutches

Reconciling Ministries

St. Andrew is a Reconciling Congregation

St. Andrew United Methodist Church publicly affirms our commitment to inclusion as faithfully recorded in the reconciling statement below, will post this statement in our newsletter and bulletin, and will forward it to the Reconciling Ministries Network to be listed among those communities that affirm inclusion. Thus, we will thereby be known as a reconciling congregation, ready to welcome those who are called to be an inclusive church living out Christ's love for all to transform the world.

Welcoming Statement

St. Andrew United Methodist Church has a place for you. We embrace Jesus’ message that God loves everyone and affirm that all persons are of sacred worth. We are proud to celebrate diversity as we work to live our vision of radical hospitality.

We welcome people of every age, race and gender identity; diverse nationalities, ethnicities, and sexual orientations; any family structure, economic reality, physical and mental ability, education and faith history. While there are differences among us, we can love alike though we may not think alike. You are invited to join this nurturing community on a faith journey toward greater love, understanding and mutual respect. 

If this is your first visit, welcome.  If you are returning, welcome home.

Becoming a Reconciling Congregation:

Answers to Commonly Asked Questions

  1. What is a Reconciling Congregation?
    A Reconciling Congregation is a United Methodist local church that makes a public statement welcoming all persons, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, to participate fully in its congregational life.

  2. What would it mean to become a Reconciling Congregation?
    As Christians, we strive to follow Christ’s acts of welcome and love for all. But the Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church (UMC) contains unwelcoming language about gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) persons. This is the only group of people expressly made to feel unwelcome by the language of the Discipline and Social Principles, and the only group denied full rights of participation in the UMC.

    To be reconciling simply means that we will expressly welcome this specific group of persons into our midst to journey with us in our Christian faith. St. Andrew United Methodist Church (SAUMC) will adopt a welcoming statement to include all persons we welcome, including GLBT persons. This will express our disagreement with the unwelcoming Discipline language and our wish to be inclusive of all people.

    The Scriptures will continue to be the highest source of guidance in our faith, and using them as our guide, we will intentionally welcome all. A Reconciling congregation is still bound by the Discipline.

  3. How do we become a Reconciling Congregation?
    Most churches engage in a study and dialogue about the concerns for the GLBT persons in the church for a period of several months or years. During this time a group in the congregation drafts a “welcoming statement” to reflect the congregation’s intended welcoming stance. This statement is approved by the Leadership Council, then taken to a charge conference for all church members to vote on.

  4. Why should we single out GLBT persons?
    Reconciling Congregations highlight the open discrimination which GLBT persons face in our church and society. In the UMC, GLBT persons are the only social group for whom participation in some aspects of general church life is barred by church law. However, there are other persons and groups in our society with whom our churches must be reconciled. Most Reconciling Congregations adopt a welcoming statement that welcomes all persons “regardless of age, gender, race, class, ethnic background, mental or physical ability, or gender/sexual orientation.”

  5. Why do we have to make a public statement? We already welcome everyone.
    Many local church and Christian leaders are public about their anti-gay actions and statements. So Reconciling Congregations must be public about their desire to be in ministry with gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender persons. The overwhelming perception within the GLBT community today is that they are not welcome in churches. A public statement is needed to overcome that reality. Remember Jesus’ statement about hiding your light under a bushel (Matt. 5:15). Rather than a decision to be kept quiet, the decision to become a Reconciling Congregation is an event to celebrate.

  6. Are we breaking church law by becoming a Reconciling Congregation?
    No. Official UM policy does bar the ordination and appointment of “self-avowed practicing homosexuals” and bans national church agencies from funding any “gay caucus or group” or otherwise “to promote the acceptance of homosexuality.” However, these restrictions do not apply to local churches. In fact, our Social Principles specifically encourage ministries with lesbian and gay persons (par. 65G) and advocate the protection of their civil rights (par. 66H).

  7. If we become a Reconciling Congregation will we become an all-gay church?
    The experiences of congregations who have become reconciling has been that they have received some new GLBT members. However, they have received as many or more new heterosexual members who are attracted to an open, hospitable congregation.

    It is important to remember that GLBT persons who do come to our congregation do that for the same reasons as anyone else—to worship God and find support in living a Christian life.

  8. Won’t this issue split our church?
    Certainly issues related to homosexuality are highly charged and can be divisive. However, the intent of the Reconciling Congregation Program is truly to be “reconciling.” We will be using an open, consultative process in becoming a Reconciling Congregation and need to realize that is it OK to agree to disagree about homosexuality, but affirm that no one should be excluded from the life and ministries of the church.

    Most churches have been able to reach consensus (not necessarily unanimity) to become a Reconciling Congregation. Some have had a few members leave because of their Reconciling status. Most have had new persons join them due to the Reconciling status. All have found their community enriched and rejuvenated by the experience of grappling with such deeply personal concerns in a positive manner.

  9. Are there already congregations or ministries in the Rocky Mountain Conference that are reconciling?
    Yes: Arvada UMC, Mountain View Community Church, Christ Church UM, Cameron Church Methodist, Warren UMC, St. Paul’s UMC, First UMC Boulder.

    Also, the Western Jurisdiction (of which we are a part) recently voted to become a Reconciling Jurisdiction.

  10. What is the Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church?
    The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church is the book of policy for the UMC. It outlines our history and theology, as well as structure, policies, and procedures by which United Methodist govern themselves. Every four years the General Conference of the United Methodist Church amends and clarifies The Discipline.

  11. What does the Book of Discipline say about homosexuality?
    The Discipline gives a mixed message about homosexuality. It says, “We recognize that sexuality is God’s gift to all persons” and that “Homosexual persons no less than heterosexual persons are individuals of sacred worth.” It also states, “Certain basic human rights and civil liberties are due all persons. We are committed to supporting those rights and liberties for homosexual persons.” It also “implores family and churches not to reject or condemn lesbian and gay members and friends,” and that “we commit ourselves to be in ministry for and with all persons.” But it continues to say that the UMC does not “condone the practice of homosexuality” and “considers this practice incompatible with Christian teaching.”

  12. What about the prohibition on “ceremonies that celebrate homosexual unions”?
    A reconciling congregation is still bound by the Discipline. Thus, we would still be prohibited from performing homosexual unions in our church.

For more information visit www.rmnetwork.org

Retreats

Coming soon

Special Interest Groups

Beyond Divorce: Rebuilding When Your Relationship Ends -

Tuesdays, August 17 – October 19, 6:30-8:30pm, Fee: $150. The ending of a love relationship can be one of the most stressful and difficult experiences in a person’s life. Learn the skills necessary to adjust to your losses, receive encouragement to rebuild your life, and move through the grief and adjustment periods in a healthy way. To sign up, contact Jenny Ricklefs. Led by Beth Walker, MBA, CPCC, Certified Professional and Personal Coach who has more than 25 years of experience in mental health and nonprofit administration. She has led many Fisher Divorce Recovery Workshops. Beth has been remarried for 14 years, and had personally transcended the trauma of divorce.

 

Brain Injury Support Group -

Please check with St. Andrew for meeting opportunities in August. We meet every 3rd Thursday of the month from 6:30-8:30pm. Support, socialization, discussion and education are offered to those who have sustained a brain injury, family members, and other interested persons. For more information on the meeting or the Brain Injury Association of Colorado, please contact Della, or Dale Wood at church. Depression Support Group - 2nd Mondays , 6:30–8pm. Depression is a treatable illness that affects more than 14 million Americans each year. Although common, depression is not a normal part of life, nor is it evidence of weak morals, poor discipline or imperfect faith. If you or a loved one has been touched by depression, come join us to share hope, information, and concerns. The group is led by Nancy Williams, Ph.D., psychologist and St. Andrew member. No sign-up necessary, but if you have questions or concerns, please contact Nancy. All are welcome.

 

Employment Search Group Welcomes All -

The Employment Search Group will NOT meet Wednesday, September 8 

Additional Info contact: Dale Wood-303-794-2683, email: dwood@st-andrew-umc.com

The Employment Search Group at St. Andrew United Methodist Church invites members of the community to their meetings whether you are looking for a new job, a career change, or you are underemployed. Meetings are Wednesdays, 6:30–9pm in room 251. Attendees are guided by mentors and guest speakers, offering guidance and direction in finding a job, opportunities for networking and resume writing. This group offers both education and support, and you may begin at any time throughout the year. For further details, please contact the Facilitator.

Grief Support Group -

*Another group will start in October*  Whether your loss is of a spouse, child, parent, grandparent or friend, no other life experience can be as isolating and painful as bereavement. Our group offers healing, growth, understanding and comfort for persons grieving the loss of a loved one. The sessions address ways to work through the grief experience in a context of faith and hope. Participation is limited to 12, so please preregister by contacting Jenny Ricklefs, Director, Congregational Care, jricklefs@st-andrew-umc.com.

OutSpirit: Friends Embracing Diversity -

Christian fellowship Christian fellowship, support, and educational opportunities for the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered church community, their friends, family & supporters. All are welcome to join us. If you have any questions please call Kristin. Meeting 4th Sundays of odd months: March, May, July, Sep and Nov, 12–1pm.

Rainbows Parents’ Group -

This is a small group for parents focused on helping their children recover after experiencing a loss through death or divorce. A child’s grieving process is very different than that of an adult. This group is designed to help parents understand how children perceive loss and how to help them work through it. Rainbows for children is held at the same time. Mondays. Jan 25 - Mar 8, 2010, (Not February 15), 7-8pm, Monday, March 15, 2010, 6-8:30pm, Celebrate Me Night.Led by Jenny Ricklefs, Director, Congregational Care.

Sagers - 

St. Andrew’s group for Seniors. Sage-ers go on an outing once a month that usually includes lunch. There’s no driving! They take the church bus. Yvonne Marshall coordinates this group. Join them for fun and fellowship.  Sage-ers will resume activities when the church construction is finished. Please watch this space for details.

Intercessory Prayer

Coming soon

Stephen Ministry

Stephen Ministers

They Are Among Us

No, we're not talking about angels or aliens. We're talking about individuals who care about others. The Bible describes their service well, "Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering." (Hebrews 13:3). If you or someone you know wants to do more as a Christian caregiver, consider Stephen Ministry. This is our congregation's one-to-one caregiving ministry.

Those involved in Stephen Ministry do just that. They serve God and respect others by providing Christian care. Is this a way you want to serve the Lord?

Feel the Warmth

Sometimes it takes more than a parka or a blanket to keep another person warm. Sometimes it takes the presence of a caring Christian friend. Stephen Ministers share the warmth of God's love with those who need it most: the lonely, the depressed, the grieving. Is God calling you to reach out to those who are hurting?

Do It All in Jesus' Name

Stephen Ministers bring distinctively Christian care to those in need. They use both words and deeds to express Christ's care for others -- calling on the training they have received and employing the tools of faith. If this job description fits your personal goals for ministry, consider becoming a Stephen Minister.

Want to Be Part of the Stephen Minister Training Class? Here’s What to Do . . .
St. Andrew will beginning training a new class of Stephen Ministers on September 21, 2010.  This is a wonderful opportunity for you to grow in faith, develop stronger relational skills, and bring Christ’s love into the lives of hurting people. If you are interested in being part of this class, pick up a copy of the Stephen Minister Application from the church office. Fill it out and return it to Jenny Ricklefs. We will then schedule a time during the coming weeks when you can meet with a couple of our Stephen Leaders to learn more about the training and so that we can learn more about you. If you have any questions, talk with one of our Stephen Ministry Leaders. Act now. Time's running out!

What can Stephen Ministries do for your congregation?

What is the Stephen Ministry Program? Stephen Ministry is a program that...

  • Equips lay persons to provide distinctly Christian care to individuals who are experiencing all kinds of life needs and circumstances
  • Multiplies our Christian care and outreach by working with the church staff to provide adjunct or long-term care
  • Enhances our outreach by creating "a caring church" family
    • Where many (instead of a few) offer Christ's love and care in intentional, systematic ways
    • Which understands itself to be a warm, loving and nurturing community where persons are cherished and cared for
    • That identifies our congregation to the community as a place where people's needs are taken seriously.
  • Meets the needs of people who need the care of other people.

What sort of problems can Stephen Ministers help with? An exhaustive list would be impossible to present. Stephen Ministers are given specific instruction in a wide variety of life-issues. The following are just a few of the areas in which a Stephen Minister might provide resources, care and support.

  • Where there is illness... care to the hospitalized, homebound, disabled, chronically or terminally ill.
  • Where there are work-related problems... to the unemployed, the under-employed, those seeking or undergoing career change, retirement, job stress.
  • Where there are family changes... care for the bereaved, support to new parents, separation or divorce.
  • To the elderly.
  • To those battling substance abuse.
  • To those who are depressed, anxious or stressed.
  • To anyone in any sort of spiritual crisis.

Who are the Stephen Ministers? Stephen Ministers are a small group of gifted and dedicated lay volunteers. Their mission is to provide personal, confidential caring Christian support for any of a wide variety of concerns. Stephen Ministers are thoroughly trained in the skills of compassionate listening and non-directive conflict clarification. All Stephen Ministers are selected for participation in this program on the basis of their capability to provide mature and professional care and support.

What sort of training do Stephen Ministers receive? Fifty hours of intensive course work begin the Stephen Minister training process. Monthly continuing education extends that training process while twice monthly small group supervision support offers each Stephen Minister the opportunity to strengthen their relationships with care receivers.

Can a Stephen Minister substitute for a therapist? Absolutely not! Stephen Ministry is not a counseling program - it is a caring ministry. Unlike therapists, Stephen Ministers are not primarily problem solvers. They are fellow members of the body of Christ who stand with you, journey with you, offering the love of Christ.

How does one get connected with a Stephen Minister? Persons looking for Stephen Minister need to go through a referral process. It works like this...

  • A person, - you, a relative or a friend - is hurting and in need of Christian care.
  • The Director of Congregational Care, Jenny Ricklefs learns about this need for care - from the Clergy, church staff, the person or a friend, always with the person's permission.
  • Jenny then talks with the person to talk about Stephen Ministry in general and how it might help in a specific situation.
  • With the person's permission, a Stephen Minister is assigned to meet on a weekly basis with the person.
  • The Stephen Minister continues to provide distinctly Christian care for the person, with strict confidentiality for as long as the care is needed.

Who will know that I have a Stephen Minister? Only those that you choose to reveal it to. All Stephen Ministry relationships are strictly confidential.

"Encourage one another and build one another up." 1 Thessalonians 5:11.

Visit nursing homes & shut-ins

Coming soon

Resources

Healing Hearts Bereavement Newsletter Did you know we have this monthly newsletter on the Congregational Care Desk? That's just to the left of the big windows in the West Gathering Space. This newsletter has articles such as "Taking Care of Yourself During Your Grief" and "The Spiritual Side: Leaving the Gap Unfilled," news of Bereavement Education programs and Grief Support Groups in the area, recommended reading, as well as volunteer opportunities at the Hospice of Metro Denver. Please help yourself or take one for a friend.

For more information contact Jenny Ricklefs (jricklefs@st-andrew-umc.com).

CareNotes “Take One-and take heart. Give One-and give hope.” CareNotes are free, helpful pamphlets to assist in getting through the rough spots in life. Titles include “Reduce Your Caregiver Stress,” Healing Your Body, Mind, and Spirit Together,” “Walking with God through Grief and Loss,” and “Dealing with Anger.” New titles arrive each month. These pamphlets also list additional resources. CareNotes are located in the Adult Wing Hall, on the Congregational Care slatwall. Please help yourself.

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