Lay training provides practical help for effective ministry

April 6, 2005

Participants in the Our Journey of Hope® lay ministry training class at St. James United Methodist Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma characterized the sessions as "informative and practical."

Pastor Gary Harber of St. James said, "Our Journey of Hope effectively helps participants better understand some of the issues faced by cancer patients in ways that equip us to become more effective in ministry to both the patient and family. It gives us a "window" into the life of cancer patients that helps us become aware of the patients' needs rather than our own agenda, thereby helping us avoid costly or painful mistakes, regardless of how well intended."

Participant John Fingerlin said, "Something I've been wanting to do is minister to people with cancer. I now realize the things I don't want to say, and I'm still learning the things I do want to say. My daughter's neighbor has cancer. I'm planning on visiting him. I don't think he goes to church or knows God."

Comments from other participants included: "I feel like I've learned a lot on the care of people with cancer"; "I found the workshop to be very helpful and informative"; "The seminar as a whole was quite informative, especially speakers on the how to."

Close to 40 people attended the two four-hour training sessions held from 8 a.m.-noon on March 12 and March 19. They learned various aspects of cancer care, including what kind of responses are encouraging and empowering to statements cancer patients may make when they're scared, angry, feeling out of control or depressed. They discovered typical responses to life-threatening illness, whether physical, cognitive, emotional or behavioral, as well as the difference between an enabler, a rescuer and an empowerer. They reviewed cancer basics, explored new ideas for creative caregiving, went through guidelines to follow for hospital visitation and were given some help in cancer prevention.

Pastor Harber concluded, "This thought-provoking presentation is vital for the person who sincerely desires to know how to be a better friend to persons of value looking for hope and strength."