Spiritual Preparation for the LTC

As you prepare for your Leader’s Training Course, it can be easy to put spiritual preparation as a lower priority. Spending some time connecting with God prior to the LTC, however, can help you to get the most out of the week of training.

Depending upon the amount of time you have prior to your LTC, it’s good to choose a few ways to prepare yourself spiritually. Following are several suggestions; choose the ones that will be most helpful and meaningful, or use others that you know work well for you.

• Spend time in prayer—for yourself, for your congregation’s Stephen Ministry, for other LTC participants, and for the Stephen Ministries staff who will serve you at the LTC

• Ask others in your congregation to pray for you—for example, the worship team, prayer teams, or prayer partners

• Read Scripture—below are a few verses you might reflect on:

  – Psalm 34:18

  – Psalm 145

  – Isaiah 41:10

  – Isaiah 61:1

  – Matthew 9:36

  – John 21:15-17

  – 2 Corinthians 1:3-7

  – Colossians 3:12

  – Hebrews 13:20-21

  – 1 John 4:12

• Listen to music that calms or inspires you

• Keep a journal of your thoughts, meditations, feelings, and prayers about your future role as a Stephen Leader

• Read a book that focuses on spiritual growth, service, or caregiving, like The Wounded Healer

Many participants have described the LTC as a time of great spiritual growth. Your preparation will help you become ready for God to work in and through you during the week of training and beyond.