The Sister to Sister program was developed to welcome and inform those sisters whose husbands have been newly ordained. During this time, things can sometimes seem overwhelming. So, the NSP board came up with the brilliant idea of a sister to sister ministry.

A fun and informative welcome package is sent to all the new sisters. The contents include, but are not limited to:

• A letter from Archbishop Elpidophoros
• A letter from the NSP President
• A list of the NSP board and standing committee members
• A directory from your Metropolis
• Food for Thought pamphlet
• Confidential Assistance Program (CAP) flyer
• A laminated icon of Martha and Mary, the patron saints of the NSP (feast day, June 4).
• An NSP Cross Pin--the three intertwined hearts on the cross symbolize the active, retired, and widowed presvyteres united as sisters in Christ.

An "Everyday Survival Kit" is also included. The contents of this survival kit are listed below, as we can all benefit by them.

EVERYDAY SURVIVAL KIT

• Toothpick. To remind you to pick out the good qualities in others. (Matthew 7:1)
• Rubber Band. To remind you to be flexible, things might not always go the way you want, but it will work out. (Matthew 6:37)
• Band Aid. To remind you to heal hurt feeling, ours or someone else's. (Luke 6:34)
• Notepad. To remind you to list your blessings every day. (Ephesians 1:3)
• Eraser. To remind you that everyone makes mistakes and it's okay. (Genesis 50:15-21)
• Glue Stick. To remind you to stick with it and you can accomplish anything. (Philippians 4:13)
• Pencil. To remind you to be good stewards. (2 Corinthians 9:6-15)
• Candle. To remind you to be a light in someone else's day. (Matthew 5:14-16)
• Mint. To remind you that you are worth a mint to your heavenly father. (John 3:16-17)
• Candy Kiss. To remind you tht everyone needs a kiss or a hug every day. (1 John 4:7-8)
• Tea Bag. To remind you to relax daily and go over that list of God's blessings. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

Once a welcome box has been sent out a big sister is assigned to them. This "seasoned" Presvytera is there to help with the transition in the Diakonisa's/Presvytera's new role and help her adjust to her new home.

We are always looking for new Big Sisters! If there is a new Diakonisa/Presvytera in your area, are you willing to be a Big Sister? Can you be someone they can call with questions, concerns, or even just go out for a cup of coffee? Anyone interested in volunteering to be a Big Sister, please contact your Metropolis representative.

If you have any questions or comments about Sister to Sister, please email Jeannie Monos (jmonos@newrome.org).