What is Stephen Ministry?

Stephen Ministry is the one-to-one lay caring ministry that takes place in congregations that use the Stephen Series system.

Stephen Ministry congregations equip and empower lay caregivers—called Stephen Ministers—to provide high-quality, confidential, Christ-centered care to people who are hurting.

What is a Stephen Minister?

Stephen Ministers are laypeople—Christian men and women—trained to provide one-to-one care to people experiencing a difficult time in life, such as grief, divorce, job loss, chronic or terminal illness, relocation, or separation due to military deployment.

Stephen Ministers come from all walks of life. Their commonality? A passion for bringing Christ’s love and care to people during a time of need.

What a Stephen Minister is NOT

A Stephen minister is not a counselor or a therapist.  They are not a problem solver.  They are not someone who runs errands or helps with chores.  A Stephen Minister is not a casual visitor.

 

Who Might Need a Stephen Minister?

Someone who is:

  • Grieving the death of a loved one ;
  • Hospitalized or recovering from hospitalization;
  • Lonely or discouraged ;
  • Coping with a terminal illness or caring for a family member with a terminal illness;
  • Unemployed or in a job crisis;
  • Disabled or caring for an ill or disabled family member;
  • Moving or relocating ;
  • New to the congregation or the community ;
  • Anticipating the birth or adoption of a child;
  • Homebound or institutionalized;
  • Transitioning into retirement;
  • Dealing with the crisis of aging;
  • Facing a life transition;
  • Experiencing a spiritual crisis;
  • Victims of a disaster or accident.

And for people facing countless other crises or life challenges or who are going through a difficult time and could benefit from the care of a supportive Christian friend.

Stephen Ministers Are There to Care

Are you going through a difficult time—emotionally, spiritually, or relationally? Are you lonely, experiencing a crisis, or simply stressed by everyday life? You don’t have to suffer alone. Our Stephen Ministers are trained caregivers, ready to listen, care for and encourage you, pray with and for you, and provide confidential one-to-one Christian care to help you through whatever it is that you are facing. To find out more, talk with our Stephen Leader, Donna Matter.

Interested in Becoming a Stephen Minister?

They are among us. No, we’re not talking about angels or aliens. We’re talking about individuals who care about others. The Scriptures describe their service well: “Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering” (Hebrews 13:3). If you or someone you know wants to do more as a Christian caregiver, consider Stephen Ministry. This is our congregation’s one-to-one caregiving ministry.