The After People

Frequently parishioners will ask, “Can you tell me exactly what Stephen Ministry is?"

They’re the after people.

…after you arrive home following the funeral service and the emotions you’ve held at bay come crashing in on you.

…after the doctors have said, “There’s nothing more we can do.”

…after the divorce papers have been served and the bottom falls out of your  life.

…after the last child honks the horn, waves, and drives away, and the house suddenly seems incredibly empty.

…after the relationship has ended but the wounds are still deeply hurtful.

…after your family and friends have heard your story one too many times,
but you still need to talk it out.  

…after the phone call you’d always hoped you’d never get.

…after you realize the hands on the gold watch you received at your retirement party move more slowly than you ever imagined.

…after the nursing home director shakes your hand and says, “Welcome to your new home.”

…after the gavel goes down, the handcuffs go on, and your loved one is led away.

…after the baby has arrived, putting more demands on you than you ever dreamed possible.

…after you find the pink slip inserted with what is now your final paycheck.