Stephen Ministry

Christ caring for people through people

Stephen Ministry is…

a ministry of our congregation that equips lay persons to provide Christian one-to-one care for those who are going through difficult times;
designed to provide care for those who are experiencing all kinds of life needs and circumstances, both in our congregation and community.
Stephen Ministers working together with our pastors to reach more people with Christian care than pastors can reach by themselves.

Trained lay members of the congregation offer Christian love and support on a one-on-one basis to those who are experiencing a loss, grief, or crisis in their lives. Stephen Ministers initially undertake 50 hours of training and continue to learn and grow through continuing education and supervision. Those who may benefit from a caring relationship with a Stephen Minister include those who are ill, facing surgery, unemployed, having marital difficulties, experiencing loneliness or depression, adjusting to the loss of loved one, job or location change, and many other situations where individual support is needed.

Frequently friends will ask us, “I know you’re involved in Stephen Ministry. Can you tell me exactly what a Stephen Minister is?” We explain that Stephen Ministers provide care when:

…the divorce papers have been served and the bottom falls out of your life.
…the last child honks the horn and drives away—and the house suddenly seems incredibly empty.
…you arrive home following the funeral service and the emotions you’ve held at bay come crashing in on you.
…the relationship has ended but the wounds are still bleeding and painful.
…the doctors have said, “There’s nothing more we can do.”
…the door has slammed shut for the very last time.
…the phone call you dreaded most, happened.
…you realized the hands on the gold watch you received at your retirement party move more slowly than you ever imagined.
…the nursing home director shakes your hand and says, “Welcome to your new home.”
…the gavel goes down, the handcuffs go on, and your loved one is led away.
…the baby has arrived, putting more demands on you than you ever dreamed possible.
…you find the pink slip inserted with what is now your final paycheck.
…your family and friends have heard your story one too many times, but you still need to talk it out.
…your loved one cannot remember who you are.
…your life is in transition and you feel overwhelmed with choices and responsibilities.

Stephen Ministers are the Christian caregivers who are there for you when life-changing situations occur. We are ready to come alongside you, your friends, neighbors, coworkers, or relatives and provide comfort and support for as long as we are needed. When you need care, please contact us. Someone will return your call as soon as possible.

If you are interested becoming a Stephen Minister, please contact us. A Stephen Leader will contact you.

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