Update Your Stephen Ministry Training Resources on Assertiveness

Yes—this update completely replaces the existing module 6 of Stephen Minister training. Instead of Speaking the Truth in Love, Stephen Ministers will now read Caring Assertiveness in preparation for the module. The new T-6 presentation script and module 6 in-class presentation outline likewise replaces the previous version of these materials.

All the previous versions of the module 6 training materials, including Speaking the Truth in Love, are not compatibile with the updated resources.

The entire module has been rewritten to correspond with Caring Assertiveness and to more effectively equip Stephen Ministers with assertiveness skills. Part 1 of the module focuses more closely on the foundational skills of assertiveness, provides deeper opportunities for self-reflection and growth, and examines in depth the Christian basis for assertiveness. Part 2 builds on this foundation by exploring how to apply the principles and practices of assertiveness to many possible situations within Stephen Ministry, ultimately concluding with the affirmation exercise from the original module.

To teach the new module 6 as continuing education:

• Stephen Leaders will need Caring Assertiveness, the T-6 presentation script, the module 6 in-class presentation outline, and (optionally) the module 6 presentation slides.

• Each Stephen Minister will need a copy of Caring Assertiveness and the module 6 in-class presentation outline.

Provide these materials to your Stephen Ministers well in advance of the continuing education session so they have the opportunity to read Caring Assertiveness ahead of time. Note that because module 6 is a two-part module, you’ll need to plan for four separate continuing education sessions (splitting parts 1 and 2 of the module into two one-hour sessions).

The Stephen Minister Training Schedules found in the S-3A and Downloadable Forms sections of the Stephen Leader Online Toolkit have been updated with the new Caring Assertiveness reading assignments.

No—Caring Assertiveness and the new module 6 presentation outline will be included in all new purchases of the Stephen Minister’s Essential Training Library, so any Stephen Ministers you train in the future will automatically receive the updated materials. Similarly, the new T-6 presentation script will be included in all new Stephen Ministry Leader’s Manuals, so newly trained Stephen Leaders will receive it as part of their materials for Stephen Leader Training.

Yes—Caring Assertiveness is a book to help everyone grow in assertiveness. Anyone can purchase it whether they’re involved in Stephen Ministry or not.