Care Ministry

Our Stephen Ministers — trained lay people — walk alongside individuals facing difficult seasons of life: grief, illness, loneliness, major life transitions, and more. Confidentiality is foundational, and care is ongoing, personal, and compassionate.

How to Request Care:
If you or someone you love could benefit from one-on-one support, contact our Associate Pastor, Rev. Dr. Brad Hopper, or fill out our confidential request form.  

Life’s struggles often feel isolating — but you don’t have to handle them on your own. Our church offers a variety of ongoing support groups and care ministries, including:

If you’re hurting — emotionally, spiritually, mentally, or physically — please know this: you don’t have to go through it alone. You’re part of a church family that cares.
 
Reach out today. Let us walk with you.

The Rev. Dr. Brad Hopper grew up in Greensboro, NC and then earned his bachelor’s degree from Mary Washington College, his MA from Asbury Theological Seminary and his Doctor of Ministry from Duke Divinity School.  He has been in ministry since the age of 22.  In addition to time in the local church, Brad has served with Youth with a Mission (YWAM), Mercy Ships, and South America Mission.    
 
Brad is passionate about building a bridge between the church and the world.  He desires for all to embrace their God-given calling and to see Christian leaders developed so that the work of God is carried out globally.
 
He loves spending time with his wife Jennie and their two children, traveling, kayaking, hiking, going to Disney and all things soccer–playing, coaching, and supporting
Liverpool FC.

Ed has been part of Weddington Methodist Church for over 21 years and has a deep passion for pastoral care. He considers it a privilege to walk alongside individuals and families during difficult seasons of life. Though semi-retired, his heart remains firmly rooted in ministry and in making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Ed earned a Bachelor of Arts in Religion from Emory & Henry College and a Master of Divinity from Duke Divinity School. While at Duke, he completed a unit of Clinical Pastoral Education at Duke Medical Center, which further shaped his calling to pastoral care ministry.
Ed has been married to his wife, Gini, for 25 years. They are blessed with a family, and their two grandchildren are the joy of their lives.

In his free time, Ed enjoys reading, traveling, and cheering for Duke basketball.

Sandra grew up in Weddington and is a lifelong member of Weddington Methodist Church. After the passing of her first husband, she felt God calling her to serve more deeply within the church. As doors opened, Sandra volunteered in a variety of ministries, including Youth, Children's, and Senior Adult Ministry along with the church office.

Sandra joined the church staff in 1993, initially serving in various administrative roles. Over the years, her responsibilities have evolved to focus on supporting the Senior Adult and Care Ministries.

Sandra believes God is not finished with her yet and considers it a joy and privilege to continue serving the church and its people.

She and her husband, Jerry have combined, two children and three grandchildren.  Spending time with family and friends is very important to her. She also enjoys reading, walking, and cookie baking and decorating with the grandkids.